Naproxen

Uses:
Also known as NSAIDs, Naproxen relieves pain and reduces inflammation. It is used to treat headaches, muscle aches, dental pain, menstrual cramps and athletic injuries. It is commonly used to treat pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis. Naproxen can also reduce fever.

How to Take:
If stomach upset occurs while taking Naproxen, take it with food, milk or an antacid. This medication is most effective in relieving menstrual pain if taken at the earliest sign of pain. Shake container well before using. Take Naproxen with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Naproxen.

Side Effects:
Stomach upset is the most common side effect. If this persists or becomes severe, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor if you develop persistent stomach pain, presence of black or bloody stools, skin rash, itching, edema (swelling of the feet or hands), change in urine color or vision changes while taking Naproxen. May cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. May rarely cause ringing in the ears and or loss of hearing. Infrequently, Naproxen may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history especially of any liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease or allergies, especially drug allergies. Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of any nonprescription medication you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Caution is advised when Naproxen is used in the elderly. Naproxen should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Use of Naproxen during the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. Naproxen is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of "blood thinners" warfarin, other arthritis medication, water pills and lithium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe stomach pain, coffee ground-like vomit, dark stool, ringing in the ears, change in amount of urine, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, muscle weakness, slow or shallow breathing, confusion, severe headache or loss of consciousness.

Notes:
In arthritis, it may take up to two weeks before the full effects of Naproxen are noted. For best results this should be taken regularly, as directed by your doctor.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.