Naproxen is a medication used to relieve various types of pain, such as headaches, muscle and dental pain, tendonitis, and menstrual cramps. It also helps with pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and gout attacks. As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), naproxen works by blocking certain substances in the body that cause inflammation.
If you’re dealing with a long-term condition like arthritis, talk to your doctor about non-drug treatments or alternative medications. Always check the ingredients on the label since manufacturers can make changes, and similar-sounding products might have different ingredients for other uses, which can be harmful if used incorrectly.
To use Flanax, an over-the-counter version of naproxen, make sure to read the instructions on the packaging. If your doctor prescribed it, follow the guide from your pharmacist. Direct any questions to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Take this medicine by mouth as directed, usually two or three times a day, with a full glass of water. Avoid lying down for 10 minutes after taking it, and try to take it with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.
The dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment. To minimize the risk of side effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Don’t increase the dose or take it more often than recommended. For ongoing conditions like arthritis, it might take two weeks to feel the full effects.
If you use this medication only when needed, take it at the first sign of pain for best results. Waiting until the pain is severe might make the drug less effective. Seek medical help if your condition worsens or you suspect a serious issue. If using naproxen for a fever, consult your doctor if it persists or worsens after three days.
Side effects can include upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, headache, drowsiness, or dizziness. Contact your doctor if these issues worsen. Your doctor has likely decided that the benefits of taking this medication outweigh the risks of side effects. Most people don’t have serious side effects, but you should regularly monitor your blood pressure as naproxen may raise it.
Serious side effects needing immediate medical attention include easy bruising, bleeding, painful swallowing, hearing changes, mood changes, signs of kidney problems, stiff neck, vision changes, or heart failure symptoms like swollen ankles or sudden weight gain. Rarely, it can cause severe liver issues. Watch for symptoms like persistent nausea, yellowing skin, or dark urine.
Though uncommon, severe allergic reactions can occur. These include fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical help if you experience these.
NSAIDs like naproxen might increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially with long-term use. Older adults or those with existing heart conditions are at higher risk. It’s also crucial not to use this drug right before or after heart surgery.
If you notice serious symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, black stools, or chest pain, stop using naproxen and seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can help you weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication.
Pros of Flanax include pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, fever reduction, and easy over-the-counter access. However, it can have cons, such as gastrointestinal side effects, cardiovascular risks, and kidney issues.
Flanax should not be confused with gastroparesis, a condition affecting stomach muscle movement. An alternative to Flanax is acetaminophen, which reduces pain and fever but without the anti-inflammatory effects and is less likely to cause stomach irritation.
In case of an overdose with severe symptoms like unconsciousness, call 911 or a poison control center immediately. Do not share this medicine with others and keep regular medical check-ups while using it. Make sure to store it at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Dispose of expired or unneeded medication properly. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines for using naproxen responsibly and seek medical help in case of serious side effects or an overdose. Lifestyle changes can support its use, especially for conditions like arthritis. Regular lab tests can aid in monitoring your health while on naproxen.
