Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Naproxen is employed to alleviate mild to moderate pain associated with various conditions. It also diminishes pain, swelling, and joint stiffness related to arthritis. Classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), naproxen functions by inhibiting your body’s production of specific natural substances that contribute to inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, following the guidance of your doctor, usually twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole; do not break, crush, or chew them, as doing so may release the drug too rapidly, increasing the risk of side effects. Ingest the medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters), unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Refrain from lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the drug.
The prescribed dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. To minimize the risk of stomach bleeding and other potential side effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Do not exceed the recommended dose or take the medication more frequently than directed. For persistent conditions like arthritis, adhere to your doctor’s instructions for continued use.
In certain cases, such as arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular drug administration before experiencing the full benefits.
Inform your doctor if your condition fails to improve or worsens.
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
Caution
- Before taking naproxen, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, aspirin, or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, celecoxib), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have asthma, blood disorders, nasal polyps, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, or throat/stomach/intestinal problems (such as bleeding, heartburn, ulcers).
- Kidney problems can sometimes arise with the use of NSAID medications, including naproxen. The risk increases if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications. Stay hydrated as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration and promptly report any changes in urine volume to your doctor.
- This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. The combination of alcohol or marijuana with this drug can intensify these effects. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Naproxen may lead to stomach bleeding. The daily use of alcohol and tobacco, especially in conjunction with this medicine, may heighten the risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol intake and cease smoking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
- Increased sensitivity to the sun may occur with this medication. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors. Notify your doctor promptly if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- Older adults may be at a higher risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.
- Before using this medication, women of childbearing age should discuss the benefits and risks with their doctor(s). Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Naproxen may harm an unborn baby and cause issues with normal 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 possible time. Do not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have adverse effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Naprosyn EC is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Naprosyn EC coated tablet:
- 375 mg
- 500 mg
- naproxen tablet:
- 250 mg
- 375 mg
- 500 mg
FAQ
When will I feel better after taking Naprosyn EC?
You should start to feel better about 1 hour after taking Naprosyn EC. But it might take up to 3 days for this medication to work properly if you take it regularly twice a day.
Is Naprosyn EC an addictive painkiller?
No, Naprosyn EC is not addictive, but it’s important to always take it as prescribed.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/naproxen/common-questions-about-naproxen/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/naproxen-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20069820
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681029.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4057/ec-naprosyn-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/naproxen.html
