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GENERIC
NAME: naproxen
BRAND NAME:
Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn, Aleve
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM:
Naproxen belongs to a class of drugs called
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Other members of this class include ibuprofen
(Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone
(Relafen) and several others. These drugs are
used for the management of mild to moderate
pain, fever, and inflammation. They work by
reducing the levels of prostaglandins, chemicals
that are responsible for pain, fever and
inflammation. Naproxen blocks the enzyme that
makes prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase ),
resulting in lower concentrations of
prostaglandins. As a consequence, inflammation,
pain and fever are reduced. Naproxen was
approved by the FDA in December,
1991.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes; (Aleve,
no)
GENERIC AVAILABLE:
Yes
PREPARATIONS: Anaprox
(tablets): 275 and 550 mg; Naprosyn (tablets):
250, 375, and 500 mg; Naprosyn suspension: 125
mg/5ml; EC-Naprosyn: 375 mg, Aleve: 220 mg;
Naprelan (controlled-release tablets): 375 and
500mg.
STORAGE: Room temperature:
15-30°C (59-86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Naproxen is
used for the treatment of mild to moderate pain,
inflammation and fever.
DOSING: The usual adult
dose is 250-500 mg twice daily using regular
naproxen tablets. The usual dose for Naprelan
controlled release tablets is 750 to 1000 mg
given once daily. For EC-Naprosyn, the usual
dose is 375-500 mg twice daily. Naproxen should
be given with food to reduce upset
stomach.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Naproxen
is associated with several suspected or probable
interactions that affect the action of other
drugs. The following examples are the most
common suspected interactions.
Naproxen may
increase the blood levels of lithium (Eskalith)
by reducing the excretion of lithium by the
kidneys. Increased levels of lithium may lead to
lithium toxicity.
Naproxen may
reduce the blood pressure lowering effects of
blood pressure medications. This may occur
because prostaglandins play a role in the
regulation of blood pressure.
When
naproxen is used in combination with
aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin) the blood
levels of the aminoglycoside may increase,
presumably because the elimination of
aminoglycosides from the body is reduced. This
may lead to more aminoglycoside-related side
effects.
Individuals
taking oral blood thinners or anticoagulants
(e.g., warfarin) should avoid naproxen because
naproxen also thins the blood, and excessive
blood thinning may lead to bleeding.
PREGNANCY: There are no
adequate studies of naproxen in pregnant women.
Therefore, naproxen is not recommended during
pregnancy.
NURSING MOTHERS: Most
NSAIDs, including naproxen, are excreted in
breast milk. In general, breast feeding mothers
should avoid the use of
NSAIDs.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most
common side effects from naproxen are rash,
ringing in the ears, headaches, dizziness,
drowsiness, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea,
constipation, heartburn, fluid retention and
shortness of breath. Naproxen also may cause
stomach and intestinal bleeding and ulcers.
Sometimes, stomach ulceration and intestinal
bleeding can occur without any abdominal pain.
Black tarry stools, weakness, and dizziness upon
standing may be the only signs of the bleeding.
People who are allergic to other NSAIDs should
not use
naproxen. | 
