Naproxen Sodium – Uses, Side Effects, and More

Naproxen sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and fever. It is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid suspension, and can be taken orally or used topically.

Uses:
Naproxen sodium is used for the treatment of a range of conditions, including:

Arthritis: Naproxen sodium is used to relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other forms of arthritis.
Menstrual cramps: Naproxen sodium can help to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
Headaches: Naproxen sodium can help to relieve the pain associated with headaches, including migraines.
Toothaches: Naproxen sodium can help to relieve the pain associated with toothaches.
Injuries: Naproxen sodium can be used to relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with a range of injuries, including sprains, strains, and contusions.
Side effects:
Naproxen sodium can cause a range of side effects, including:

Stomach problems: Naproxen sodium can cause upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, and indigestion. It can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time.
Dizziness, headache, and drowsiness: Naproxen sodium can cause dizziness, headache, and drowsiness, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time.
Rashes and itching: Naproxen sodium can cause rashes and itching.
Blurred vision: Naproxen sodium can cause blurred vision.
Ringing in the ears: Naproxen sodium can cause ringing in the ears.
Serious side effects of naproxen sodium are possible, including:

Kidney problems: Naproxen sodium can cause kidney problems, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time. Symptoms of kidney problems may include swelling of the legs and ankles, decreased urination, and dark colored urine.
Liver problems: Naproxen sodium can cause liver problems, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time. Symptoms of liver problems may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
An increased risk of heart attack or stroke: Naproxen sodium can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially when taken in high doses or for a long time.
Interactions:
Naproxen sodium can interact with a range of medications, including:

Blood-thinning medications: Naproxen sodium can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin.
Lithium: Naproxen sodium can increase the level of lithium in the blood, which can lead to toxicity.
ACE inhibitors: Naproxen sodium can reduce the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors, which are used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.
Aspirin: Taking aspirin and naproxen sodium together can increase the risk of stomach problems and bleeding.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
Naproxen sodium is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, which means that it may be harmful to a developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should use naproxen sodium with caution and only under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Naproxen sodium can pass into breast milk and may be harmful to a breastfeeding infant. Women who are breastfeeding should use naproxen sodium with caution and only under the supervision of a healthcare