Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Prescription naproxen is indicated for the management of pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness associated with various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is available in tablet, extended-release tablet, and suspension forms. Naproxen is also utilized for the alleviation of shoulder pain resulting from bursitis, tendinitis, gouty arthritis, and pain of various origins, including dysmenorrhea (pain occurring before or during menstruation).
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.
Uses and Dosage
Administer this medication orally in accordance with the instructions provided by your physician, typically 2 or 3 times per day, accompanied by a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). Refrain from lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication. To minimize the risk of stomach discomfort, consume this medication with food, milk, or an antacid.
The prescribed dosage is contingent upon your medical condition and response to treatment. In order to mitigate the potential for stomach bleeding and other adverse effects, take the medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
Refrain from increasing the dosage or exceeding the recommended frequency of administration as instructed by your doctor or indicated on the package label. For chronic conditions such as arthritis, continue taking the medication as prescribed by your physician.
For specific conditions, such as arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular medication use to achieve the full therapeutic benefits.
If you are utilizing this medication on an “as needed” basis, pain medications are most effective when employed at the onset of pain symptoms. Delaying medication usage until the pain worsens may compromise its efficacy.
If your condition persists, deteriorates, or if you suspect a serious medical issue, seek immediate medical assistance.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- gas
- excessive thirst
- headache
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- burning or tingling in the arms or legs
- cold symptoms
- ringing in the ears
- hearing problems
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- changes in vision
- feeling that the tablet is stuck in your throat
- unexplained weight gain
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- swelling in the abdomen, ankles, feet, or legs
- sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection
- blisters
- rash
- skin reddening
- itching
- hives
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, or hands
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
- excessive tiredness
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- nausea
- diarrhea
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- flu-like symptoms
- bruises or purple blotches under the skin
- fast heartbeat
- cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
- back pain
- difficult or painful urination
- decreased urination
- loss of appetite
- confusion
Caution
Prior to initiating naproxen treatment, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any known allergies to naproxen, aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or celecoxib, or any other allergies you may have. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can elicit allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma, blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding or clotting problems, nasal polyps, heart disease (including prior heart attack), high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, swelling (edema) or fluid retention, or stomach/intestinal/esophageal issues.
The use of NSAID medications, including naproxen, can potentially lead to kidney problems. The risk is heightened if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or are taking certain medications. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and promptly notify your doctor of any changes in urine output.
This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can safely do so.
This medicine has the potential to cause stomach bleeding. Regular alcohol and tobacco use, particularly when combined with this medication, may elevate the risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol consumption and cease smoking.
The use of this medication may heighten sun sensitivity. Limit your sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Promptly notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or develop skin blisters/redness.
Certain naproxen products may contain sodium. Inform your doctor if you are following a sodium-restricted diet.
Older adults may face an increased risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke when using this medication.
For women of childbearing age, discuss the benefits and risks of naproxen with their doctor(s). Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication can be harmful to an unborn baby and may cause complications during labor and delivery. Its use is not recommended from 20 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. If your doctor determines that the use of this medication is necessary between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration possible. This medication should not be used after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
This drug can pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Anaprox is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Anaprox tablet:
- 275mg
-
naproxen sodium tablet:
- 275mg
FAQ
Is Anaprox the same as Aleve?
Anaprox contains more naproxen per pill than Aleve. Anaprox is indicated for treatment of acute pain, chronic pain and inflammatory conditions under a doctor’s supervision.
How long does it take for Anaprox to work?
For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to two weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/naproxen-oral-tablet#:~:text=Overview%20of%20naproxen,regular%20naproxen%20and%20naproxen%20sodium
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/anaprox
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10989/anaprox-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681029.html#:~:text=Nonprescription%20naproxen%20is%20used%20to,class%20of%20medications%20called%20NSAIDs
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/anaprox.html
