Naproxen

Naproxen – Full Introduction

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the management of pain, inflammation, and fever. It is particularly valued for its long duration of action, making it useful in chronic inflammatory conditions.

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Drug Class

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

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Mechanism of Action

Naproxen works by reversibly inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins mediate:

• Pain

• Inflammation

• Fever

By reducing prostaglandin production, naproxen:

• Relieves pain

• Reduces inflammation

• Lowers fever

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Therapeutic Uses

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Osteoarthritis

• Ankylosing spondylitis

• Acute gout

• Musculoskeletal pain

• Dysmenorrhea

• Migraine attacks

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Benefits

• Strong anti-inflammatory action

• Longer half-life than many NSAIDs (allows twice-daily dosing)

• Effective in both acute and chronic pain

• Lower cardiovascular risk compared to some other NSAIDs (relative)

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Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain)

• Dizziness

• Headache

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Serious but Rare Side Effects

• Peptic ulcer disease and GI bleeding

• Renal impairment

• Hypersensitivity reactions

• Cardiovascular events (with long-term/high-dose use)

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Contraindications & Precautions

• History of peptic ulcer or GI bleeding

• Severe renal or hepatic disease

• NSAID-induced asthma

• Use cautiously in elderly patients

• Avoid use in the third trimester of pregnancy

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Dosage & Administration

• Adults:

  • Naproxen: 250–500 mg twice daily

  • Naproxen sodium: 220–550 mg twice daily

• Take with food or milk to reduce gastric irritation

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Conclusion

Naproxen is an effective NSAID with a long duration of action, making it suitable for chronic inflammatory disorders and acute pain. Like all NSAIDs, it should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimize adverse effects.