Naproxen sodium is an NSAID used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever, but can cause serious side effects such as ulcers, bleeding, and liver toxicity. It interacts with certain drugs and is not suitable for pregnant women, children, and heavy drinkers. Over-the-counter versions are available, but only adults and children should take them.
Naproxen sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used to treat pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps and fever, as well as conditions affecting the joints. More rarely, it is used in the management of bone conditions such as Paget’s disease and kidney disorders such as Barrter’s syndrome. While it is generally safe to use, some people experience serious side effects. Pregnant women, children and heavy drinkers generally should not take this drug.
Form
There are both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) versions of naproxen sodium. When prescribed, it is usually available as a tablet, delayed-release coated tablet, extended-release pill, or liquid. Most modules run every 8 hours, while the extended release version runs once a day. Over-the-counter versions generally come in pill form and are available in 8- to 12-hour dosages. The extended-release forms are popular for chronic pain sufferers because they don’t have to take a pill every 4 to 6 hours, as with other NSAIDs.
Side effects
Many people can use naproxen sodium without side effects, but some have stomach pain, nausea, constipation, and heartburn after taking it. Drowsiness, headache or ringing in the ears are also possible side effects. Eating food or drinking a glass of water along with your pill can often help prevent this from happening.
Other possible more serious side effects include ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and stomach and intestinal holes, so this drug is not suitable for those who have had ulcers in the past. Drinking alcohol and smoking can exacerbate these problems and so should be avoided when using this drug. Like other NSAIDs, it can affect the kidneys and is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly when taken consistently for a long time. Another possible serious side effect is liver toxicity, which produces symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, and pain in the abdomen. Anyone with symptoms like this should see a doctor right away.
Interactions
Naproxen sodium can interact with antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and lithium, so it’s important to talk to a doctor before taking these two drugs together. People taking blood thinners, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and aspirin should also consult a healthcare professional before taking naproxen sodium, as taking them together can cause increased side effects and an increased risk of bleeding.
Additional Risks
Because of potential side effects, only adults and children should take over-the-counter naproxen sodium at home, although health care professionals may prescribe it for children as young as two years of age. Pregnant women shouldn’t use it, as it can increase the risk of miscarriage in those in the first trimester and potentially cause birth defects in the third trimester. It can also be passed on through breastfeeding, so it’s not suitable for nursing mothers. Also, those with high blood pressure shouldn’t take this drug, due to its high sodium content.
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