Naproxen Sodium

What is Naproxen Sodium?

Naproxen sodium is used primarily as a pain reliever for headaches, muscle soreness, tendonitis, menstrual cramps, and any other pain that is caused by inflammation. What does naproxen do? Naproxen sodium reduces pain and swelling by reducing the body’s production of chemicals, hormones, and enzymes that cause inflammation. Officially classed as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), it can help relieve pain and inflammation that is associated with arthritis, bursitis, and gout. It is important to work with your physician to make sure that you can take naproxen whenever your needs arise and take the time to ask, “what does naproxen do?”, so that they can help you fully understand.

For most chronic conditions, such as arthritis, it can take a few weeks of regularly taking this medication to reach the full benefit. Make sure that you follow the directions of the doctor and listen to the physician regarding dosage and regularity of consumption. If you are supposed to take it every day and not just when the pain presents, then not doing this can cause it not to work effectively when you need it. Remember also that pain medication, such as naproxen sodium work their best when you take them as soon as the pain starts, as waiting until the pain worsens can often cause the medication not to be as effective at reducing the pain. Always speak to your physician if the pain worsens or persists for more than a couple of days.

What does Naproxen do? And other important information

Naproxen is great for reducing inflammation and inflammation related pains but there are several side effects and possible drug interactions that you should be aware of; especially if you were not prescribed the medication and are just taking it as a pain reliever. Misuse or overuse of naproxen can have serious effects on your stomach or digestive system, which can lead to bleeding or development of an ulcer. Naproxen may also cause heart and circulation problems that can lead to heart attacks and strokes, especially with long term use. It is strongly advised by doctors not to use naproxen before or after any circulatory or heart operations. These side effects can be very serious and even fatal for people with weakened immune systems such as elderly adults.

It is always advisable to get emergency medical assistance any time that you feel chest pain, severe weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, and/or vision problems.