Naproxen (By Mouth)
Naproxen (na-PROX-en)
Treats pain caused by arthritis, gout, menstrual cramps, and other medical problems. The over-the-counter brand is only for minor aches and pains and mild fevers. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Brand Name(s):Naprelan, Naprosyn, Aleve, Anaprox DS, Aflaxen, Anaprox, Aleve Arthritis, Prevacid NapraPAC 375, Prevacid NapraPAC 500, EC Naprosyn
There may be other brand names for this medicine. When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to naproxen, aspirin, or other pain arthritis medicines, such as Voltaren, Motrin®, Clinoril®, or Indocin®. The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, rash, or swelling in the face. How to Use This Medicine:
Tablet, Liquid, Coated Tablet, Long Acting Tablet
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Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often.
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You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
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Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
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Swallow the controlled-release tablet or coated tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew.
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Shake the oral liquid well before use.
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Measure the oral liquid using a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.
If a dose is missed:
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Use the missed dose as soon as possible.
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If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to use your medicine and skip the missed dose.
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You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
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Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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You should not use this medicine with aspirin (or products that may contain aspirin) or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®).
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Naproxen can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use naproxen. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are using Coumadin®.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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Talk with your doctor before using naproxen if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, or ulcers or other stomach problems.
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Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not use this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy.
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Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while using this medicine.
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You can buy naproxen without a doctor's prescription; but you should talk to your doctor before you start using it. Don't use the medicine for more than 10 days (if treating pain) or 3 days (if treating fever) unless you have talked to your doctor.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
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Severe rash, hives, or itching
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Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
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Chest tightness or trouble breathing
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Unexplained fever or sore throat or fever
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Unusual bleeding or bruising
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Yellowing of skin or eyes
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Decreased amount of urine
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Severe stomach pain or bloody vomit
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Black, tarry or bloody stools
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Drowsiness or dizziness
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Ringing in ears
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Headache
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Nausea, stomach cramps, or mild heartburn
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Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
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Constipation or diarrhea
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
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