Napexa
Generic Name
Naproxen
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| napexa 375 mg tablet | ৳ 12.00 | ৳ 48.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling, and fever. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other inflammatory disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For arthritis, typically 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily. For Napexa 375 mg, 375 mg twice daily. Maximum daily dose usually 1000 mg (or 1250 mg for short periods).
Elderly
Lower doses may be considered due to increased risk of adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal and renal.
Renal_impairment
Dose reduction advised in mild to moderate renal impairment. Contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
Naproxen inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever, so by inhibiting their production, naproxen reduces these symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Pain relief typically begins within 1 hour, with peak effect in 2-4 hours.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine (about 95%), mostly as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 12-17 hours, allowing for twice-daily dosing.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 2-4 hours after oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by demethylation and subsequent conjugation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe heart failure
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
May increase plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
May increase plasma methotrexate levels, leading to toxicity.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May reduce the diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C, in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and lethargy. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment, including gastric lavage and/or activated charcoal if ingested recently.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C/D (D in 3rd trimester or near delivery). Avoid in the third trimester due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Naproxen is excreted in breast milk; therefore, use is generally not recommended during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe heart failure
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
May increase plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
May increase plasma methotrexate levels, leading to toxicity.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May reduce the diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C, in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and lethargy. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment, including gastric lavage and/or activated charcoal if ingested recently.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C/D (D in 3rd trimester or near delivery). Avoid in the third trimester due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Naproxen is excreted in breast milk; therefore, use is generally not recommended during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Globally approved, widely available
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Naproxen has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various pain and inflammatory conditions over decades of use.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood count (CBC) for long-term therapy
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Renal function tests (Creatinine, BUN)
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
- Monitor for signs and symptoms of GI bleeding or cardiovascular adverse events, especially in high-risk patients.
- Assess renal function regularly during long-term therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., black, tarry stools, severe stomach pain).
- Inform your doctor if you experience swelling, unexplained weight gain, or vision changes.
- Avoid taking other NSAIDs concurrently without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Napexa may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances in some patients. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
- Engage in light exercise as advised by your doctor if your condition permits.
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