Anaprox

What side effects are possible with this medication?

A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. A side effect may be mild or severe, temporary or permanent, but does not occur in everyone. The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away over time. If you develop any of these side effects (or any other side effects not listed here) or they change in intensity, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on managing them and on the risks and benefits of the medication.

abdominal pain back pain confusion constipation coughing diarrhea difficulty swallowing difficulty urinating dizziness dry mouth gas hair loss headache hearing or vision changes heart palpitations or flutters heartburn higher than normal blood pressure readings higher than normal blood sugar readings

increased sweating insomnia itching lightheadedness menstrual problems migraine nausea racing heart rate rectal bleeding respiratory infection ringing in the ears runny nose skin infections (e.g., herpes simplex) skin rash (mild) sore throat stuffy nose swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet vertigo weight gain

Click here to learn about serious side effects that can potentially occur with any medication. These examples are provided for information purposes only and are not meant to be exhaustive. Always consult your doctor for sound medical advice specific to your particular medication and treatment.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may develop an allergic reaction to this medication. Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash (that may include blisters and fever), a swollen face, or difficulty breathing. If these occur, seek emergency medical care.

Anemia: Naproxen may cause or worsen anemia (loss of red blood cells). People more prone to anemia should get their blood tested regularly and check for signs of anemia (e.g., weakness and tiredness) while taking this medication.

Asthma: The use of NSAIDs or aspirin has worsened symptoms of asthma and the condition. People with asthma should be closely monitored by their doctor while taking this medication.

Blood pressure: This medication may cause increased blood pressure. People with high blood pressure should be closely monitored by their doctor while they are taking this medication.

Heart attack and stroke: People who take NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors have a higher risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. The risk for these side effects is higher with larger total daily doses and longer treatment periods. People with heart disease or high blood pressure may be at a higher risk and should be closely monitored by their doctors while taking this medication. This medication should not be taken by people who have had or are planning to have open heart (bypass) surgery.

Heart failure and fluid retention: People with heart failure, high blood pressure, or fluid retention may experience edema (swelling of the lower legs, ankles, and feet) or shortness of breath while taking NSAIDS (such as this medication) or COX-2 inhibitors. If you develop any of these symptoms while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Kidney disease: Long-term use of naproxen or other NSAIDs can cause kidney damage and thus is not recommended. In general, NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors are not recommended for people with severe kidney disease or limited kidney function.

Liver disease: Naproxen may affect your liver test results and worsen liver disease. People with liver disease should be closely monitored by their doctors while taking this medication.

Stomach ulcers: Naproxen may cause stomach problems such as ulcers or bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience stomach pain or vomiting blood, or if you notice any black or tarry stools. The use of aspirin, corticosteroids (such as prednisone), or blood thinners at the same time as naproxen will increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding and thus is not recommended. Seniors have a higher risk of stomach ulcers when taking this medication. The risk of stomach ulcers also increases with taking higher total daily doses and longer treatment periods. However, stomach ulcers may happen at any time during treatment and without warning symptoms.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it immediately and call your doctor.

Breast-feeding: This medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for children less than 2 years of age.

Seniors: Seniors who take this medication should be closely monitored by their doctors. Seniors may be more likely to develop side effects and may require a lower dose.

What other drugs could interact with this medication?

There may be an interaction between naproxen sodium and any of the following:

• ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, ramipril)
• alcohol
• aspirin and other salicylate medications
• corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
• furosemide
• lithium
• methotrexate
• other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, etodolac)
• thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide)
• warfarin

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.