Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: NAPROXEN ENTERIC COATED TABLET - ORAL (nah-PROX-en)

BRAND NAME(S): EC-Naprosyn

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which relieves pain and swelling (inflammation). It is used to treat arthritis and other painful conditions. This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain and swelling. Enteric-coated tablets of naproxen are a delayed-release form of the drug. They are not intended to be used for conditions that require immediate pain relief such as acute gout, menstrual pain, tendonitis or bursitis. A quicker-acting dosage form should be used for these conditions.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not break, crush or chew the tablets. Take with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Do not take this medication with antacids or other drugs that decrease stomach acid. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. In certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to two weeks, taken regularly, before the full benefits of this drug take effect.

SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, and dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: stomach pain, swelling of the hands or feet, sudden or unexplained weight gain, ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: vision changes, rapid or pounding heartbeat, easy bruising or bleeding. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: change in amount of urine, severe headache, very stiff neck, mental/mood changes, persistent sore throat or fever. This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking naproxen and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. If you notice any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking naproxen and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine, unusual/extreme tiredness. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.