naproxen side effects

Side Effects of Naproxen - What to Expect From This Popular Painkiller

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Naproxen is a common pain reliever and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) that is used to treat a variety of ailments. But what about the negative effects of Naproxen?

If you're considering using Naproxen to manage pain and inflammation, you definitely want to learn more about how it will impact you and whether there are any potential adverse effects.

That's why we've put up this information so you can learn more about the various adverse effects of taking this medication. We'll go over the side effects of Naproxen in greater depth, from the most common to the most serious, long-term consequences, as well as anything else you should know.

What is the purpose of Naproxen?

Naproxen is an anti-inflammatory pain reliever that is used to treat muscle and joint pain as well as inflammation.

A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine is naproxen (NSAID). It's used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout, all of which damage the joints. Back pain, sprains and strains, period discomfort, and muscular and bone diseases are all treated with it.

Naproxen is a prescription pain reliever available in the form of tablets (such as oral delayed release tablets or gastric-resistant pills) or oral solution (a liquid you drink).

Naproxen tablets are available in a variety of strengths. Naproxen 250 mg is available at Ashcroft Pharmacy for the efficient alleviation of short-term pain (such as period pain) and inflammation without the need to visit a doctor.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are medications that are used to treat inflammation.

Naproxen, also known as Naproxen Sodium, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is an acronym for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. These are potent anti-inflammatory medications that are commonly used to treat pain, inflammation, and high temperatures.

Many people use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain. They are, however, not ideal for everyone and can have unfavourable side effects. If you don't like NSAIDs like Naproxen, there are other medications that can help you relieve pain and inflammation.

Naproxen side effects in a nutshell

Naproxen, like many drugs, can have negative side effects as well as favourable health outcomes.

This isn't to say that everyone who uses Naproxen will have problems. Most people will find that Naproxen relieves pain adequately and has few to no adverse effects.

Naproxen is also expected to have less negative effects than other anti-inflammatory medications like high-strength ibuprofen, especially gastrointestinal side effects, which are more common with these medications.

However, like with other drugs, there's always the possibility of side effects, which is why it's important to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms.

The following is a list of the most common Naproxen side effects:

  • Stomach ache
  • Heartburn
  • Vvomiting)
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Bloating
  • Gas\sDizziness
  • Headaches
  • Tiredness and drowsiness
  • Ringing ears (tinnitus)
  • Vision alterations (eg blurred vision)
  • Rash of itchy skin
  • Problems sleeping
  • Dreams that are unusual
  • Irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
  • Light sensitivity of the skin
  • Hair thinning
  • Fever
  • Ulcers in the mouth and surrounding areas
  • Asthma is becoming more severe.
  • Blood pressure that is too high
  • Hands, feet, or legs that are swollen
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Confusion and memory difficulties
  • Mood swings
  • Hallucinations
  • Weight gain
  • Retention of fluid
  • Ulcers in the stomach
  • Bleeding in the stomach or intestines
  • Anemia
  • Kidney disease or kidney troubles
  • Urinary changes (such as dark urine or blood in urine)
  • Liver function disturbances
  • Pneumonia, or lung enlargement, is a common ailment

As you can see, Naproxen's potential side effects range from moderate to severe. Naproxen, on the other hand, has a very low risk of causing a severe reaction. In the section below, we'll go through major side effects and associated symptoms.

This isn't an exhaustive list of potential adverse effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any other side effects not listed above.

Likewise, if any of the adverse effects we've listed concerns you, contact your doctor right away for further information.

Symptoms and adverse effects of Naproxen

There are some Naproxen pill side effects that are more common than others.

This does not mean that everyone who uses Naproxen will suffer these adverse effects; about one in every 100 persons who take the painkiller will experience them.

The following are some of the most common Naproxen adverse effects:

  • Headaches
  • Tiredness and drowsiness
  • Heartburn, and stomach pain are among gastric side effects
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Gas and bloating
  • Dizziness
  • The ears are ringing
  • Vision alterations (e.g. blurred vision)
  • Confusion
  • Rash & itchy skin

By taking Naproxen with or after a meal to protect your stomach, you can decrease or eliminate the gastrointestinal adverse effects we stated before.

If you forget to take a Naproxen dose, take it as soon as you recall. To reduce the danger of overdosing, never take more than two Naproxen 500mg pills in a 24-hour period and leave at least six to eight hours between doses.

If you have any concerns about any of these Naproxen side effects, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Naproxen's serious adverse effects and symptoms

It's unusual to get major adverse effects from Naproxen.

However, just in case, it's a good idea to be aware of these adverse effects, as well as the signs and symptoms that signal them. If you observe any of these symptoms, you should get medical help.

The following are serious Naproxen side effects and symptoms:

  • Severe indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain, feeling or being sick (nausea and vomiting), and diarrhoea are all indications of a stomach or gut ulcer.
  • Vomiting blood or dark particles that look like coffee grounds, blood in your faeces, or black, tarry-looking excrement are all signs of serious stomach or gut disorders.
  • Fainting, chest pain, and shortness of breath are all symptoms of anaemia.
  • Yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes are symptoms of liver damage or issues.
  • Blood in your pee, darker urine, passing less urine, vomiting, and nausea are all indicators of kidney injury or infection.
  • Fever, feeling or being nauseous, a stiff neck, headache, sensitivity to bright light, and confusion are all symptoms of meningitis.
  • Fever, stomach ache, back pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, and weight loss are all symptoms of pancreas inflammation.

If you suffer major adverse effects like the ones listed above while taking any medicine, including Naproxen, you should contact your doctor right away.

If you believe your symptoms are dangerous or life-threatening, seek medical help immediately.

If you have any doubts, consult a medical expert right away.

Reactions due to allergies

Naproxen can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in certain people.

If you are allergic to Naproxen or have previously had an allergic reaction to other anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or diclofenac, you should not take it.

The following are symptoms and indicators of a significant allergic reaction:

  • Breathing problems, such as breathlessness or wheezing
  • Talking is difficult
  • Chest or throat constriction
  • Swelling of the face, mouth, lips, tongue, or throat, in particular
  • Rashes, itchy, red, puffy, blistering, or peeling skin are examples of skin changes
  • Severe vertigo

If you have any of the aforementioned symptoms after taking Naproxen, seek medical help at once. These symptoms signal a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Alternatively, dial 999 or head to A&E.

Risks associated with naproxen

There are a few risks associated with Naproxen that you should discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine. They will be able to offer medical advise on the best course of action.

Your doctor may advise against taking Naproxen if you've had a heart attack, have heart disease, or have risk factors for heart disease or events (such as high blood pressure).

This is because it raises your chances of developing heart disease, having a heart attack, or having a stroke.

People who take NSAIDs like Naproxen for a long time are more likely to experience serious side effects and hazards like these (such as repeated daily use for weeks, months or possibly years).

What are the long-term consequences of Naproxen use?

Naproxen should not be taken for extended periods of time, especially at high doses.

This pain reliever is typically prescribed for persons who have minor, non-serious injuries or suffering. This is due to the following health concerns and side effects of using Naproxen for an extended period of time:

  • Ulcers in the stomach or ulcers in the intestine
  • Bleeding in the intestines
  • Heart failure and an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and blood clots are serious cardiovascular thrombotic events
  • Failure of the kidneys
  • Bruising is more likely to occur
  • Asthma symptoms are worsening

It's important talking to your doctor or pharmacist about your discomfort if you've been using Naproxen for a long time — weeks, months, or years — and you're taking large dosages. They might be able to recommend a better long-term pain relief option for you. They may also prescribe a supplemental treatment to protect your stomach in some circumstances.

What medicines should you avoid taking if you're taking Naproxen?

Other medications may interact with naproxen tablets.

This implies it has the potential to impact how well other drugs work (or vice versa) as well as increasing the likelihood of major adverse effects in the body.

If you're taking any of the following medications, you should avoid using Naproxen:

  • Aspirin, ibuprofen, or diclofenac are examples of anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Heparin or warfarin, for example, are blood thinners or anticoagulants.
  • Prednisolone or dexamethasone are corticosteroids.
  • Furosemide and other diuretics ('water tablets').
  • Captopril, ramipril, or propranolol, as well as losartan or candesartan, are used to treat high blood pressure.
  • Tacrolimus or cyclosporin.
  • NSAIDs should not be taken with mifepristone (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Naproxen) 8-12 days after mifepristone administration.
  • Antidepressants such as citalopram and fluoxetine are SSRIs (short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).
  • Zidovudine.
  • Antibiotics using quinolones, such as ciprofloxacin.
  • Probenecid.
  • Methotrexate.
  • Alendronic acid, for example, is a bisphosphonate.
  • To avoid interference with absorption, use Naproxen one hour before or four to six hours after taking colestyramine.
  • Lithium.
  • Digoxin and other cardiac glycosides.
  • Phenytoin and other hydantoins.
  • Sulphonamides, such as sulfamethoxazole, are antimicrobials.
  • Glibenclamide and gliclazide are sulphonylureas.

Check with your doctor if you are currently taking or plan to take any of the above medications while taking Naproxen.

Naproxen and other pain relievers

If you're already taking other pain relievers and want to use Naproxen, you'll want to know which ones you can take with it.

Some pain relievers are safe to take alongside Naproxen, such as:

  • Paracetamol
  • Codeine
  • Co-codamol
  • Tramadol
  • Morphine

Because Naproxen is essentially an anti-inflammatory, whilst the others are various sorts of painkillers, this is the case (for example, codeine is an opioid-type painkiller).

Naproxen should not be taken with other anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or aspirin, as shown in the list above. If taken long-term without sufficient safeguards, this might cause damage to the stomach and intestines.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure about what you can and can't take with Naproxen.

Does Naproxen put you to sleep or make you drowsy?

Some people may experience drowsiness and exhaustion after taking naproxen, although this isn't the case for most people who use the pain reliever.

This side effect is reported by 1 to 10 persons out of every 100. This implies that while the chances of experiencing this adverse effect are minimal, if you take Naproxen, you may feel sleepy or weary.

Avoid driving or operating machinery if these negative effects occur.

Is it true that Naproxen causes weight gain?

Naproxen does not induce weight gain, and no weight changes are indicated as a side effect of this pain reliever.

Naproxen can produce fluid retention and swelling in the body, even though it isn't an adverse effect. As a result of your body retaining excess water, you may gain weight temporarily.

If you notice a sudden increase in weight and are worried, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Does Naproxen cause or exasperate stomach pain?

Naproxen can induce stomach pain, stomach irritation, indigestion, wind, heartburn, and nausea, among other things.

Naproxen, on the other hand, is supposed to have less adverse effects than other anti-inflammatory medications, and it is generally deemed to be gentler on the stomach than painkillers like high-strength ibuprofen or diclofenac. In reality, due to concerns about diclofenac's harmful effects on the gastrointestinal system, Naproxen has mainly replaced it in the United Kingdom.

Taking Naproxen with or after food can usually prevent or minimise stomach pain and other gastrointestinal issues. To protect the stomach and the lining of the stomach, naproxen pills should always be taken with meals.

Naproxen is only available in gastro-resistant pills at Ashcroft Pharmacy. This implies they have an extra protective coating on them, which minimises the risk of gastrointestinal problems even more.

Breastfeeding and naproxen

It's not a good idea to take Naproxen when you're breastfeeding.

Because Naproxen has a lengthy half-life, it can stay in the body for a long time and be passed on to a nursing infant through breast milk.

Despite the fact that Naproxen concentrations in breast milk appear to be relatively low in the few studies that have been done, we still don't know what the dangers of exposure to neonates are.

Naproxen is also not advised during pregnancy. This is because there is a link between using Naproxen later in pregnancy and birth defects (specifically, heart problems in the kid).

If you are currently using Naproxen and are breastfeeding, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, you should consult your doctor.

Summary of Naproxen use

Naproxen is a strong anti-inflammatory pain reliever that is used to treat pain and inflammation in muscles and joints (such as arthritis).

Naproxen is thought to have fewer adverse effects and be gentler on the stomach than other anti-inflammatories such high-strength ibuprofen or diclofenac.

When taking Naproxen, however, there is still a potential of having adverse effects, just as with any other medication.
Stomach discomfort, diarrhoea, wind, constipation, nausea, and vomiting are the most prevalent gastrointestinal adverse effects. Taking Naproxen with or after food can help to avoid or decrease these adverse effects.

Prescription Naproxen is available from Ashcroft Pharmacy as gastro-resistant pills, which have an extra protective coating to lower the danger of gastrointestinal side effects even further. For efficient pain relief, you may buy Naproxen tablets online here. Simply complete our online consultation form, and one of our experienced prescribers will approve your prescription and ship your medication.

If you have any severe, painful, or long-lasting Naproxen side effects, go to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.