MedDataToolNaproxen sodium is a medication that temporarily relieves minor aches and pains, such as those from arthritis, backaches, headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and the common cold, and it can also help reduce fever. It works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. For adults and children aged 12 and older, it is taken as a caplet every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms last, with a starting dose of 1 caplet, and you can take 2 caplets for the first dose if needed, but do not exceed 2 caplets in an 8 to 12 hour period or 3 caplets in a day. A key warning to keep in mind is that naproxen sodium can cause severe stomach bleeding, especially if you are over 60, have had stomach ulcers, or drink alcohol regularly. It's important to avoid using this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to pain relievers or fever reducers, and consult a doctor if you are taking blood thinners or have other serious health conditions.
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Uses
- minor pain of arthritis. muscular aches. backache. menstrual cramps. headache. toothache. the common cold. temporarily reduces fever.
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Dosage
Adults and children 12 years and older: take 1 caplet every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms last.
For the first dose, you may take 2 caplets within the first hour.
Do not exceed 2 caplets in any 8 to 12 hour period.
Do not exceed 3 caplets in a 24 hour period.
Children under 12 years: ask a doctor.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Common side effects may include stomach upsettrouble breathingor weakness on one side of the bodyPain that lasts more than 10 days or fever that lasts more than 3 days should be reported
Serious
Serious side effects include signs of stomach bleeding like faintingvomiting bloodor black stoolsSigns of heart problems or stroke include chest painDifficulty swallowing or feeling like the pill is stuck in your throat is serious
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- May cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin.
- Increased risk of severe stomach bleeding, especially if over 60 or with a history of ulcers.
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke if used more than directed.
- Do not use if allergic to any pain reliever or fever reducer.
- Ask a doctor if you have a history of stomach problems, high blood pressure, or kidney disease.
- Consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding, especially in the last 3 months of pregnancy.
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Drug interactions
- Blood thinnersincreased risk of bleedingMonitor
- Steroid drugsincreased risk of stomach bleedingMonitor
- Other NSAIDsincreased risk of stomach bleeding.Monitor
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).