Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Naproxen is utilized to alleviate pain associated with various conditions, including headaches, muscle aches, tendonitis, dental pain, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, it diminishes pain, swelling, and joint stiffness resulting from arthritis, bursitis, and gout attacks. As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), naproxen operates by inhibiting the body’s production of specific natural substances that trigger inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as instructed by your doctor, usually 2 or 3 times a day, accompanied by a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). After taking the drug, refrain from lying down for at least 10 minutes. To minimize the risk of stomach upset, ingest this medication with food, milk, or an antacid.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment. To mitigate the risk of stomach bleeding and other potential side effects, consume this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible.
Do not augment your dose or take this drug more frequently than advised by your doctor or indicated on the package label.
For persistent conditions like arthritis, adhere to the prescribed dosage as directed by your doctor.
For certain conditions, such as arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular drug intake to experience the full therapeutic benefits.
If you are using this drug on an “as-needed” basis (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications are most effective when taken at the initial signs of pain. Delaying until the pain intensifies may result in reduced effectiveness.
Should your condition persist, worsen, or if you suspect a serious medical problem, seek medical assistance promptly. If you are utilizing the nonprescription product to address fever, consult your doctor immediately if the fever worsens or persists for more than 3 days.
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
- Before taking naproxen, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to naproxen, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any other substances. Inactive ingredients in this product may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma, blood disorders, bleeding/clotting problems, nasal polyps, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, swelling, or stomach/intestinal/esophagus issues.
- The use of NSAID medications, including naproxen, can sometimes lead to kidney problems. The likelihood of problems increases if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications. Stay well-hydrated as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration, and promptly inform your doctor of any changes in urine output.
- This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness until you can do them safely.
- Naproxen may cause stomach bleeding. The daily use of alcohol and tobacco, especially when combined with this medicine, may heighten the risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and cease smoking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding safe alcohol consumption.
- This medication may increase sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing outdoors. Notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- Some naproxen products contain salt (sodium). Inform your doctor if you are on a salt-restricted diet.
- Older adults may face a higher risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.
- Women of childbearing age should discuss the benefits and risks with their doctor(s) before using this medication. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause issues during labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor determines that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Do not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Anaprox DS is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Anaprox DS tablet:
- 550 mg
- naproxen sodium tablet:
- 550 mg
FAQ
Is Anaprox the same as ibuprofen?
Anaprox and Ibuprofen are two common NSAIDs that are both effective for relieving pain. Anaprox is longer lasting, while ibuprofen often provides faster pain relief.
How long does it take for Anaprox to work?
It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes for Anaprox to start working for mild to moderate pain. It may take up to 4 hours to feel the full effects.
Resources:
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/naproxen-vs-ibuprofen-7093993#:~:text=Naproxen%20(Aleve)%20and%20Ibuprofen%20(,similarities%20between%20naproxen%20and%20ibuprofen
- https://www.goodrx.com/naproxen/how-long-does-naproxen-take-to-work
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/anaprox
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9771/anaprox-ds-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681029.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/anaprox-ds.html
