Naprosyn

naproxen

Naprosyn is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), juvenile arthritis (a form of joint disease in children), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine). Naprosyn tablets are also used to relieve shoulder pain caused by bursitis (inflammation of a fluid-filled sac in the shoulder joint), tendinitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects muscle to bone), gouty arthritis (attacks of joint pain caused by a build-up of certain substances in the joints), and pain from other causes, including menstrual pain (pain that happens before or during a menstrual period).

It is also used to reduce fever and to relieve mild pain from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. Naproxen is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

This medicine works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Naproxen works 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. In certain conditions (e.g.,arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of regular use before the full benefits of this drug take effect.

- Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis: 250-500 mg - Acute Gout: 750 mg, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the symptoms are relieved - Mild to Moderate Pain, Menstrual Cramps, Acute Tendinitis, and Bursitis: 500 mg, followed by 250 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed - Juvenile Arthritis: 10 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into 2 doses

The usual adult dose is 250-500 mg twice daily using regular naproxen tablets. When taking Naprosyn, 1 tablet should be taken every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms last. You may take 2 tablets within the first hour of symptoms for the first dose. However, you should not exceed 2 tablets in any 8 to 12 hour period or 3 tablets in a 24-hour period.

If you are taking Naprosyn on a regular schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose. If you are taking Naprosyn as needed, take the missed dose if it is needed, then wait the recommended or prescribed amount of time before taking another dose.

Continue to take Naprosyn and talk to your doctor if you experience dizziness or headache; nausea, diarrhea, or constipation; depression; fatigue or weakness; dry mouth; or irregular menstrual periods. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Significant over dosage may be characterized by drowsiness, heartburn, indigestion, nausea or vomiting, seizures. If you ingest a large number of tablets or a large volume of suspension, accidentally or purposefully consult a doctor, an emergency room, or a poison control left for advice.

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Naprosyn may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable. Avoid alcohol or use it with moderation. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, Naprosyn may increase the risk of dangerous stomach bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking Naprosyn if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages a day. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Naprosyn may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities. Many over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, and pain medicines contain aspirin or other medicines similar to Naprosyn.

Store Naprosyn tablets at room temperature and in well-closed containers; dispense in light-resistant container.