1. Relieve Aches and Pains
Naprosyn is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. Doctors prescribe it to relieve pain and swelling that accompany chronic conditions like bursitis, arthritis and gout attacks. You can also find it in over the counter medications such as Aleve. Use Naprosyn to alleviate the pain of tendonitis, muscle aches, headaches and menstrual cramps. NSAIDS like Naprosyn don't cure these conditions but relieve their symptoms to make it easier for you to do daily activities and live your life.
2. Take Naprosyn With Food
Take your dose of Naprosyn with a meal, a snack or a glass of milk to avoid an upset stomach. You can also prevent an upset stomach by staying upright and not lying down for at least a half hour after taking Naprosyn. Swallow your Naprosyn whole and don't crush it or chew the tablet. Swallowing the tablet whole keeps the enteric coating intact and protects your stomach.
3. Don't Break Your Heart
In some rare cases, Naprosyn can cause blood clots and cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke. If you have a pre-existing cardiovascular disease, you're at a greater risk of heart problems. This risk also increases with long term use. If you're concerned about Naprosyn's possible side effects, talk with your doctor.
4. You May Experience Bleeding
In rare instances Naprosyn can cause sudden bleeding from the stomach and intestines. This side effect can occur at any time without warning while you're taking Naprosyn. Stomach disorders put you at an increased risk for stomach bleeding, and you're also more at risk if you're elderly. Decrease the possibility of stomach bleeding by refraining from drinking alcohol and smoking while you're taking Naprosyn. Taking it with food also reduces the risk of this side effect.
5. Interactions With Medications
Notify your doctor and pharmacist of any other medications you're taking. If you regularly take drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin to relieve pain or prevent heart attack ask your doctor if you should stop taking them when taking Naprosyn. It can have serious interactions with medications containing high doses of aspirin. Talk to your pharmacist if you take anti-platelet drugs like Plavix, blood-thinners like Coumadin, medications to reduce water retention or anti-depressants because Naprosyn can also decrease the effectiveness of these medications.
