Indications - Naproxen is indicated for the relief of sign and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis & acute gout. It is also indicated for the management of primary dysmenorrhea & pain.
Dosage & Administration - Naproxen Tablet- Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis: The usual dose is 500-1000 mg daily in two divided doses after meals. Management of pain, primary dysmenorrhea, acute tendonitis & bursitis: Recommended starting dose is 500 mg followed by 500 mg every 12 hours or 250 mg every 6-8 hours. The initial total daily dose should not exceed 1250 mg and thereafter, the total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg. Acute gout: Recommended starting dose is 750 mg followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the attack has subsided. Naproxen Suspension- For Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: The usual dose for children over 2 years is 10 mg/kg/day given as two divided doses at 12-hours intervals. Therapy in children under 2 years of age is not recommended. Naproxen Gel- Is to be applied 2-6 times a day as required and is not recommended for use in children.
Side Effects - Most frequently reported side effects include following: Gastrointestinal: Heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia. Central Nervous System: Headache, vertigo, drowsiness. Dermatological: Pruritus (itching), purpura. Cardiovascular: Edema, palpitation. Others: Visual disturbances, hearing disturbances.
Contraindications - Naproxen is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Naproxen. It should not be given to patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. It is contraindicated for the treatment of perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Others - Pregnancy & Lactation US FDA pregnancy category of Naproxen is C. So, Naproxen should be avoided in pregnancy & lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.