Naprox
Generic Name
Naproxen 250 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Various manufacturers (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals, Beximco Pharma)
Country
Global (manufactured in various countries)
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
naprox 250 mg tablet | ৳ 7.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. It works by blocking the body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis: 250-500 mg twice daily. For acute gout: 750 mg orally, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until attack subsides. For dysmenorrhea: 500 mg initially, then 250 mg every 6-8 hours as needed. Max daily dose: 1250 mg.
Elderly
Use lowest effective dose for shortest duration. Monitor for renal and gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dose reduction may be necessary. Not recommended for severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min).
How to Take
Take orally with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break.
Mechanism of Action
Naproxen inhibits prostaglandin synthesis by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes. This reduces the formation of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Pain relief typically begins within 1 hour.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine (about 95%) as naproxen, 6-O-desmethylnaproxen, and their conjugates.
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.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by demethylation, forming 6-O-desmethylnaproxen.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
- Active or history of recurrent 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
- Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery (peri-operative pain)
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased lithium plasma levels and toxicity.
Methotrexate
Increased methotrexate plasma levels and toxicity.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
ACE inhibitors/ARBs
Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment.
Other NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of adverse effects, avoid concomitant use.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
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, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and rarely, gastrointestinal bleeding. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care. Gastric emptying (emesis or gastric lavage) and activated charcoal may be considered within 1 hour of ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C (first and second trimester), Category D (third trimester). Avoid in the third trimester due to risk of premature closure of fetal ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in first and second trimesters only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Naproxen passes into breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Generally approved worldwide by regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating efficacy in pain, inflammation, and fever, especially in rheumatic conditions. Ongoing research focuses on long-term safety and specific indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor complete blood count (CBC)
- Monitor liver function tests (LFTs)
- Monitor renal function tests (RFTs) including serum creatinine and BUN
- Monitor blood pressure
Doctor Notes
- Consider the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration, especially in elderly patients or those with cardiovascular/GI risk factors.
- Educate patients on symptoms of GI bleeding and cardiovascular events.
- Periodically monitor renal function, liver enzymes, and blood pressure during prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment.
- Inform your doctor about any history of heart disease, stomach ulcers, or kidney problems.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Report any unusual bleeding, black/tarry stools, or severe stomach pain immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can increase the risk of stomach problems. Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
- For inflammatory conditions, complementary therapies like physiotherapy or exercise may be beneficial.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.