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naproxen
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. |