Indications 

Naproxen is an effective pain reliever for mild to moderate pain and can reduce swelling and joint stiffness in arthritis. It’s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking inflammatory substances in the body. For long-term conditions like arthritis, consider non-pharmacological or alternative treatments. This naproxen formulation is slow-acting and unsuitable for rapid pain relief, like gout attacks. Consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist for faster pain relief options or alternative medications. 

Uses and Dosage 

Administer this medication orally by your physician’s guidance, typically twice daily, irrespective of food intake. Ingest the medicines as a whole entity without breaking, crushing, or chewing the tablets, as any such actions may lead to the rapid release of the active drug compound, heightening the potential for adverse effects. Ensure the consumption of this medication with a complete glass of water (equivalent to 8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless otherwise instructed by your medical practitioner. Following medication intake, avoid assuming a recumbent position for 10 minutes. 

The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition and individual response to treatment. To mitigate the risk of gastric bleeding and other potential side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary. Abstain from increasing the dosage or exceeding the recommended frequency of administration as stipulated by your healthcare provider. For persistent medical conditions such as arthritis, sustain the regimen as your doctor prescribes. 

For select conditions, such as arthritis, it may necessitate up to two weeks of consistent medication administration before realizing the full therapeutic benefits. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects

Possible side effects of this medication include: 

• Discomfort in the abdominal region 
• Nausea 
• Heartburn  
• Headaches  
• Drowsiness  
• Dizziness 

If these adverse reactions persist or exacerbate, promptly inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Severe Side Effects

Keep in mind that your physician has prescribed this medication based on carefully assessing the balance between the benefits and potential side effects. A substantial proportion of individuals employing this medication do not encounter severe side effects. 

Report to your healthcare provider any severe side effects you may experience, including but not limited to:  

• Easy bruising or bleeding 
• Discomfort or pain when swallowing 
• Alterations in hearing (such as ringing in the ears)  
• Fluctuations in mental state or mood 
• Manifestations indicative of kidney issues (such as alterations in urine output)  
• Unexplained stiffness in the neck  
• Changes in vision 
• Symptoms suggestive of heart failure, such as:  
  • Swelling in the ankles or feet  
  • Unusual fatigue 
  • Unexplained and sudden weight gain 

Cautions 

Inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any allergies to naproxen, aspirin, other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or celecoxib, or any history of allergies to other substances. 

Discuss the medication’s contents with your pharmacist for clarity. 

Provide a detailed medical history, especially if you have: 

• Asthma, significantly if worsened by aspirin or NSAIDs 
• Blood disorders (anemia, bleeding/clotting issues) 
• Nasal polyps 
• Heart disease, including past heart attacks 
• Hypertension 
• Liver problems 
• A history of stroke 
• Current throat, stomach, or intestinal issues (bleeding, heartburn, ulcers) 

Be aware that renal complications can occur with NSAID use, including naproxen. The risk is higher with dehydration, concurrent heart or kidney problems, advanced age, or certain medications (see Drug Interactions). Follow your doctor’s advice on fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and promptly report changes in urinary output to your healthcare provider.