Anaprox (Naproxen Sodium)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Anaprox Used For?
Anaprox is a medication that helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation caused by various conditions.
Primary Uses
Anaprox is used to treat pain and inflammation associated with different types of arthritis, muscle and bone injuries, menstrual cramps, migraine headaches, post-surgery pain, and dental pain.
How It Works
Anaprox works by inhibiting the production of substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain.
Good to know: Anaprox is not addictive.
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How to Take Anaprox
It is important to take Anaprox exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage Instructions
The typical initial dose for sprains, strains, and period pain is 550 mg, followed by 275 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed, with a maximum of 1375 mg per day. For migraine, start with 825 mg, and if needed, take an additional 275 mg to 550 mg after one hour, not exceeding 1375 mg in a day. For arthritis, the dose ranges from 550 mg to 1100 mg daily, divided into two doses.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Stomach upset, nausea, heartburn
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headache or drowsiness
- Buzzing or ringing in the ears
- Dry mouth or thirst
- Itching or mild skin rashes
- Fluid retention or shortness of breath
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty hearing or deafness
- Severe headache
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
- Blurred vision
- Unusual weight gain
- Swelling of ankles or legs
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Severe stomach pain or tenderness
- Allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Anaprox.
Who Should Not Take Anaprox
Do not take Anaprox if you have allergies to naproxen sodium, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers, severe liver disease, or are in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heartburn, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, or any bleeding disorders.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Anaprox may affect your developing baby during pregnancy and is not recommended for women trying to conceive. It passes into breast milk, and its effects on nursing infants are unknown.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Older adults may be at increased risk for stomach ulcers and may require a lower dose.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Anaprox and affect its effectiveness.
- Antacids
- Aspirin and other NSAIDs
- Diuretics
- Lithium
- Probenecid
- Phenytoin
- Methotrexate
- Warfarin
- Heparin
- Blood pressure medications
- Certain antibiotics
- Some diabetes medications
- Steroids
- SSRIs
- Zidovudine
- Sodium bicarbonate
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while taking Anaprox.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may increase dizziness or light-headedness.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Anaprox affects you, as it may cause dizziness.
Storage
Store Anaprox tablets in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and sunlight, below 30°C. Do not refrigerate.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include drowsiness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anaprox typically begins to relieve pain within a few hours.
Yes, it is recommended to take Anaprox with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
No, Anaprox is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Anaprox, as they may advise a gradual reduction.
Inform your doctor if you drink alcohol, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Anaprox.
Elderly patients may require a lower dose due to increased risk of side effects.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.