Naprelan (naproxen) is a medication used to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness in such medical conditions as rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis (joint pain in children) and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine). According to Drugs.com, it belongs to the class of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and decreases the hormones that cause inflammation. Naprelan's dose can be anywhere from 500 to 1,000 mg daily, as your doctor instructs.
Avoid Naprelan if you have a history of asthma or an allergic reaction to NSAIDs. Life-threatening anaphylactic reactions (swelling), shock (condition where your organs no longer receive enough blood) and death may occur.
Frequent Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Naprelan's routine side effects include flatulence (gas), bloating, heartburn, stomach pain, indigestion and constipation or diarrhea. It can also cause tinnitis (ringing in your ears), blurry vision, dizziness, headache and a rash. MedlinePlus states that you may also experience hearing problems, drowsiness, extreme thirst and mouth sores. Usually, these side effects are harmless, but call your doctor if these symptoms do not abate.
Severe Side Effects
Naprelan's serious side effects include shortness of breath, chest pain, weakness, slurred speech and visual or balance problems, according to Drugs.com. The drug can also cause rapid weight gain, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), decreased urination, dark urine and sore throat. Other severe symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes), fever, neck stiffness and convulsions. Naprelan can also cause peeling of your skin. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of these side effects.
Other Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine says that Naprelan can cause itching, palpitations (pounding heartbeat), stomach or intestinal ulcers, vomiting and menstrual irregularities. Naprelan can increase your risk for pancreatitis (inflammation of your pancreas), esophagitis (inflammation of your esophagus), anemia (low red blood cell count), hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It can also cause kidney problems, such as nephrotic syndrome, and exacerbate asthma symptoms.
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