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Description
Naproxen is a medicine that works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase isoenzymes COX-1 & COX-2, this inhibition is competitive and results in anti-inflammatory and pain relieving actions. COX-1 enzyme is found in stomach lining and is responsible for producing toxicities and upset in gastrointestinal tract while COX-2 enzyme is involved in prostaglandins production; that mediates fever, pain & inflammation. While inhibiting these enzymes naproxen exerts its antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity.
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Ingredients
Naproxen
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Dosage Form
Tablet
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Uses
Headache, Muscle Pain, Tendonitis, Dental Pain, Menstrual Cramps, Fever, Dysmenorrhea, Migraine, Inflammation and swelling. Joint pain and stiffness; in Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Also treats the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis and Gout.
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Dosage
Dose must be taken according to doctor’s advice only; doses given below are suggested as supportive literature for better understanding in some areas of requirements. Below doses are for extended release tablets only. Adult dose: For Pain, Dysmenorrhea, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis; 750-1000mg orally a day. Maximum dose is 1500mg per day; only if recommended and is tolerated well by the patient. For acute gout; 1000-1500mg orally a day, followed by 1000mg orally a day until attack subsides. Child dose: For pain in children above 12 years of age; 750-1000mg orally a day. Maximum dose is 1500mg per day; only if recommended and is tolerated well by the patient.
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In case of Overdose
Overdose may result in the appearance of symptoms like coma, confusion, agitation and blurred vision. Consult your doctor in case of overdose; supportive treatment for management of overdose must be initiated immediately.
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Missed Dose
In case you missed any dose, take the next dose as soon as you remember, but don't double your next dose to compensate for the missed one.
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How To Use
Use orally with milk, food or antacid products to avoid the chances of gastro-intestinal upset. Use as advised by the physician.
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When Not to Use
Do not use it in case of hypersensitivity to Naproxen or any of its components. Do not use Naproxen in case of; Active gastro-intestinal bleeding & ulceration, history of gastrointestinal bleeding & perforation with the use of NSAID therapy, history of recurrent gastro-intestinal hemorrhage (two or more distinct episodes) and severe heart failure.
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Side Effects
Headache Nausea Vomiting Dyspepsia Pruritus Skin rash Ecchymosis (discoloration of skin due to bruising) Diaphoresis (increased sweating) Hyperglycemia Increased thirst Abdominal pain Constipation Diarrhea Flatulence Gastritis Heartburn Gastro-intestinal bleeding Gastro-intestinal ulcer Urinary tract infections Dizziness Back Pain Tinnitus Rhinitis
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Precautions & Warnings
This medicine may cause; dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision so patients must be cautioned about driving a vehicle or operating machinery after taking this medicine. Caution is required with its use in; Allergic disorders, cardiac impairment, renal impairment, cerebrovascular disease, coagulation defects, connective-tissue disorders, dehydration (risk of renal impairment), heart failure, gastro-intestinal disorders (e.g. ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease), ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, risk factors for cardiovascular events and uncontrolled hypertension. In patients of age 65 years and above with diabetes or renal disease, this medicine may increase the risk of hyperkalemia. So if the patient is already on certain medicines that could induce hyperkalemia like; ACE-inhibitors then risks of hyperkalemia would be more. Avoid during pregnancy unless the potential benefit outweighs the risks. Avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy (risk of closure of fetal ductus and possibly persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn); onset of labor may be delayed and duration may be increased. Use with caution during breast-feeding.
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Food Interactions
Anise or anise seeds that are used as an ingredient of food dishes; if eaten in large quantities at once along with use of naproxen may increase adverse effects of this medicine. Foods and supplements rich with Vitamin E may increase antiplatelet effects of naproxen. Bilberry fruit that is used in jams and pies and is also used to treat certain illnesses like; diarrhea, diabetes, urinary tract problems and inflammation of mouth, if this fruit is eaten along with use of naproxen then it may also increase its adverse effects.
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Storage/Disposal
Store at 25°C. Protect from heat and moisture.