Generic name:
Naproxen sodium
Other brand names: Aleve, Naprelan
Anaprox and Naprelan are
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve mild to moderate pain
and menstrual cramps. They are also prescribed for relief of the
inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with
rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of
arthritis), and for ankylosing spondylitis (spinal arthritis), tendonitis,
bursitis, acute gout, and other conditions. Anaprox also may be
prescribed for juvenile arthritis.
The over-the-counter form of naproxen sodium, Aleve, is used for temporary
relief of minor aches and pain, and to reduce fever.
Most important
fact about this drug:
You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take
Anaprox regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without
warning.
What side effects may occur:
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change
in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your
doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Anaprox.
More common side effects may include: Abdominal pain, bruising, constipation, diarrhea,
difficult or labored breathing, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, hearing
disturbances, heartburn, indigestion, inflammation of the mouth, itching,
light-headedness, nausea, rapid fluttery heartbeat, red or purple spots on
the skin, ringing in the ears, skin eruptions, sweating, swelling due to
fluid retention, thirst, vertigo, vision changes
Less common side effects may include: Abdominal bleeding, black stools, blood in the urine,
change in dream patterns, chills and fever, colitis (inflammation of the
large intestine), congestive heart failure, depression, general feeling of
illness, hair loss, inability to concentrate, inability to sleep,
inflammation of the lungs, kidney disease or failure, menstrual problems,
muscle weakness and/or pain, peptic ulcer, severe allergic reactions, skin
inflammation due to sensitivity to light, skin rashes, vomiting, vomiting
blood, yellow skin and eyes
Naprelan shares some of the above side
effects, but also has some of its own:
More common side effects may include: Back pain, flu symptoms, infection,
nasal inflammation, sinus inflammation, sore throat, urinary infection
Less common side effect may include: Accidental injury, anemia,
bronchitis, chest pain, cough increased, difficulty swallowing, fever,
gas, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, joint pain, joint/tendon
problems, leg cramps, "pins and needles" or tingling, stomach
inflammation, weakness
Rare side effects may include: Abscesses, amnesia, angina pectoris
(severe chest pain), anxiety, belching, blood disorders, bone disorders,
bursitis, certain cancers, confusion, digestive tract inflammation,
emotional changeability, enlarged abdomen, eye or ear problems, fainting,
gallstones, heart and blood vessel disorders, kidney stones, loss of
appetite, migraine, nail disorders, neck pain or rigidity, nerve problems,
nervousness, nosebleed, respiration and/or lung problems, skin disorders,
stomach/intestinal/rectal hemorrhage or other disorders, tooth problems,
ulcers, urinary problems, vaginal inflammation, vertigo, weight loss
Special warnings about this medication: Remember that peptic ulcers and
bleeding can occur without warning.
This drug should be used with caution if you have kidney or liver
disease. It can cause liver inflammation in some people.
Do not take aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory medications while
taking Anaprox, unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Anaprox and Naprelan contain sodium. If you are on a low sodium
diet, discuss this with your doctor.
Use with caution if you have heart disease or high blood pressure.
This drug can increase water retention. It also may cause vision
problems. If you experience any changes in your vision, inform your
doctor.
This drug makes some people drowsy or less alert. Avoid, driving,
operating dangerous machinery, or participating in any hazardous activity
that requires full mental alertness if you find that the drug has this
effect on you.
Do not take Aleve for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for
fever. Contact your doctor if pain or fever persists or gets worse,
if the painful area becomes red or swollen, or if you develop more than a
mild digestive upset.
The "PHYSICIAN'S DESK
REFERENCE®", and PDR® are registered trademarks owned by Medical Economics.
