Download What is naproxen and why is it given?

What is naproxen and why is it given?
Note: It is okay to use acetaminophen
When should I call or see my doctor?
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
(Tylenol®) along with naproxen.
Please call your rheumatologist, pediatrician or
drug (NSAID). It is commonly used to treat pain
and swelling in arthritis. It may also be used to
treat fever, backache, headache, and menstrual
cramps.
How does it work?
Naproxen works by reducing inflammation,
which results in less pain and swelling in
arthritis.
How long does it take to work?
Taken regularly, naproxen may show some effect
at 4 weeks. However, it can take up to 8 weeks
to see the full benefit.
How should naproxen be taken?
your family doctor if you notice any of these side
Drugs to avoid when taking naproxen:
Avoid using any other NSAID medicines such
as: aspirin (ASA®), ibuprofen (Advil®,
Motrin®, or Midol®), celecoxib (Celebrex®),
indomethacin (Indocid®), diclofenac
(Voltaren®) or naproxen (Aleve®, Anaprox®,
Naprelan®, or Naprosyn®).
Avoid using blood thinners such as warfarin
(Coumadin®).
Always check with your pharmacist about other
medications you may be using while on
naproxen.
Don’t use naproxen if you have an allergy to
aspirin or any other NSAID. Tell your doctor if
you have a breathing condition called asthma.
Naproxen should be taken with food or milk so it
doesn’t upset your stomach.
Store both liquid and tablets in a cool, dry area at
room temperature.
Goals of therapy:
•
Decrease swelling and inflammation
•
Increase range of motion
•
Reduce pain and stiffness
•
Improve daily activities of living such as
sports, gym class and hobbies
Urgent:
Bloody/black bowel movements or vomit
appearing to contain blood or “coffee grounds”
could signal bleeding from the bowel. This may
be accompanied by severe/persistent abdominal
pain. Seek urgent medical attention.
Less urgent:
1) Persistent nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or
heartburn
2) Decreased appetite
3) Continuous constipation
4) Blistering or poor healing of skin on the face
5) Puffy lower legs and feet
What are the common side effects?
If using the liquid form of naproxen, shake well
before measuring the dose.
effects:
•
Mild nausea
•
Stomach pain
•
Heartburn
•
Constipation
•
Easy bruising
Rheumatologists:
Dr. Adam Huber
Dr. Bianca Lang
Dr. Suzanne Ramsey
Dr. Elizabeth Stringer
Naproxen:
Clinic Nurses:
A Patient / Family Guide
Monday-Friday
Andrea or Lynne
902-470-8913
IWK Switchboard:
Local tel. #: 902-470-8888
Toll free: 1-888-470-5888
(Ask for Rheumatologist on call)
IWK Rheumatology, Halifax, N.S.
PL-0793 Last Update: 04/13
Next Review: April 2016
Division of Rheumatology
IWK Health Centre
5850 / 5980 University Ave
Halifax, N.S.