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

• Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often.
• You may take the medicine with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
• Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
• Swallow the controlled-release tablet or coated tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew.
• Shake the oral liquid well before use.
• Measure the oral liquid using a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

• Use the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to use your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• 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.

• You should not use this medicine with aspirin (or products that may contain aspirin) or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®).
• 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).
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• 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.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not use this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy.
• 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.
• 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:

• Severe rash, hives, or itching
• Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
• Chest tightness or trouble breathing
• Unexplained fever or sore throat or fever
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Decreased amount of urine
• Severe stomach pain or bloody vomit
• Black, tarry or bloody stools

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Ringing in ears
• Headache
• Nausea, stomach cramps, or mild heartburn
• Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
• Constipation or diarrhea

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.