From the Guidelines
Naproxen is recommended as a first-line treatment for patients with pain and stiffness, particularly for those with ankylosing spondylitis, due to its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and pain 1.
Key Considerations
- The typical adult dose of naproxen is 250-500 mg taken twice daily, with a maximum daily dose of 1500 mg.
- Naproxen works by blocking enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX), which produce prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation.
- It should be taken with food to minimize stomach irritation, and patients should not exceed the recommended dosage or duration without medical supervision.
Potential Risks and Interactions
- Common side effects include stomach upset, heartburn, and dizziness.
- Naproxen carries risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and increased cardiovascular risk with long-term use 1.
- It should be avoided by people with certain conditions including severe heart failure, history of stomach ulcers, or aspirin allergy.
- Patients taking blood thinners, certain blood pressure medications, or other NSAIDs should consult their healthcare provider before using naproxen due to potential drug interactions.
Special Precautions
- The use of naproxen in conjunction with cardiac-dose ASA substantially increases the risk of ulcer complications, and a gastroprotective therapy should be prescribed for at-risk patients 1.
- Elderly patients and those with a history of gastrointestinal problems are at higher risk of naproxen-related complications and should be closely monitored.
From the Research
Naproxen Overview
- Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat acute pain 2.
- It is available over-the-counter (OTC) and is effective in treating various types of acute pain.