Naid

What It Is Used For

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It relieves pain, swelling and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, and also treats period pain, gout attacks, and muscle and joint injuries.

How to Take It

Adults usually take 250 mg to 500 mg twice a day, with or just after food. Most people should not take more than 1,000 mg a day unless the doctor says so (higher doses are sometimes used for a few days in a gout attack). Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. Use the lowest dose for the shortest time that controls your symptoms.

Who Should Not Take It

Do not take it if you are allergic to naproxen, aspirin or other NSAIDs (for example if they have caused asthma, a runny nose or swelling), if you have or have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, if you have severe heart failure, severe kidney or liver disease, or in the last 3 months of pregnancy.

Side Effects

Common: indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, headache, dizziness and mild swelling of the ankles. Stop and get medical help straight away if you have black or bloody stools, vomit blood, chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, shortness of breath, or a serious skin rash.

Precautions

NSAIDs can raise the risk of stomach bleeding, heart attack and stroke, especially at high doses or with long use. Talk to your doctor first if you are over 65, have high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, or kidney problems.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy unless your doctor advises it, and do not take it from 20 weeks onwards without a doctor's advice. Ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Do not take it with other NSAIDs or regular aspirin. Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners such as warfarin, steroids, antidepressants (SSRIs), blood pressure medicines, water tablets, lithium or methotrexate.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.