Naprelan
Generic Name: Naproxen
Classification of Naprelan
Naprelan is not a controlled substance or a narcotic. It is not addicting and cannot cause dependence. Naprelan is known to be an NSAID. It is an anti-inflammatory which can treat fever and pain. It also goes in the category of analgesic. There is a brand of this known as Aleve which a lot of people are familiar with.
Drug Interactions
Do not use any other NSAID's such as aspirin, ibuprofen, celecoxib, etc. without doctors permission. Some medicines and foods can affect the way this drug works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following
- Blood Thinner
- Steroid Medicine
- Blood Pressure Medicine
- Lithium
- Methotrexate
- Probenecid
Side Effects
- Allergic reaction such as itching, swelling in the face or hands, swelling/tingling in the throat or mouth, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.
- Skin rash
- Nausea
- Dark urine or loss of appetite
- Unusual bleeding
- Vision changes
- Stomach pain
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Pain in the lower leg
- Do not use if you have had an allergic reaction to naproxen, aspirin, or other any NSAID or if you have asthma.
Uses
It is used to relieve symptoms of arthritis such as inflammation, swelling, and joint pain. It also can relieve symptoms of arthritis in the spine. It can treat fever and pain.
Dosages
If in a liquid, liquid capsule, tablet, coated tablet, or long acting tablet your doctor will tell you how much of the medicine you should take.
In a prescription-strength of this drug it will come with a medication guide in which it will tell you how much of the medicine to take.
If you happen to miss a dose you are to take it as soon as you remember or if close to time for your next dose wait until then and then take it regular.
Small children- 10 mg a day divided up into two doses.
Adult- 500 to 1,000 mg daily in two divided up doses.
Pregnancy and Lactation
If you are pregnant or are going to breastfeed your baby you should talk to your doctor because there is a possibility of some risks with taking this drug while pregnant. Do not use this medicine in the later part of your pregnancy unless told to do so by your doctor.
Storage
Store in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. If it is an oral liquid do not freeze it. Should be stored at a temperature of 15 degrees to 30 degrees celcius.
Patient Counseling
You should discuss with the patient the use of the drug and the side effects of the drug. Tell the patient to report any side effects immediately and educate patients on signs of a significant reaction.
Assessment or Monitoring?
There is no assessment or monitoring needed while taking this drug. The patient just needs to tell the doctor if they start having side effects.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action is related to prostaglandin synthetase inhibition. The mechanism of action for this is not completely understood just like a lot of other NSAID's.
Administration
This drug is administered orally by the patient themselves. It can be in the form of a liquid or a tablet
Boxed Warning Label
There is a boxed warning label that comes with this drug. The warning label states that it can cause an increased cardiovascular risk such as MI and stroke which can be fatal. It also has a gastrointestinal risk which can cause bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.