Gabapentin and Naproxen: A Combination Therapy or Interactive Duo?
You might have noticed that your doctor may recommend medicines in combination based on pain intensity and therapeutic advantages. This is mainly due to the increased effectiveness of drugs combined compared to when used alone. However, due to possible interactions, not all medicines can be combined, regardless of whether they are over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medicines.
This brings us to two effective painkillers, Gabapentin and Naproxen, that can effectively relieve different types of pain, but can they be used together for better results? Do they differ in uses or have any interactions? Read ahead to put an end to all your questions and explore all the information you are seeking for Gabapentin and Naproxen.
Is Naproxen and Gabapentin the same thing?
No, Naproxen and Gabapentin are two different drugs. They also belong to different classes of medications. Naproxen is a Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) while Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant. Their uses are also significantly different, as Naproxen is primarily a painkiller while Gabapentin is used to treat seizures. However, Naproxen cannot treat nerve pain, but Gabapentin can.
The FDA-approved uses of Gabapentin are treating Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain and burning sensation because of shingles), partial seizures and Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Some FDA-approved uses of Naproxen are Acute gout, Ankylosing spondylitis, Bursitis, Osteoarthritis and Primary dysmenorrhea.
Learn about the use in detail by reading What Naproxen is used for.
Naproxen 500mg and Gabapentin together
As discussed earlier, Gabapentin and Naproxen can be used together to relieve pain. They can also prove more beneficial together. A 2022 study confirmed this as a combination therapy of Naproxen and Gabapentin was more effective in relieving pain after tooth extraction. Naproxen 500 mg a day, along with 300 mg Gabapentin divided into three doses of 100 mg given every eight hours, managed pain better than Naproxen alone.
So, they are an effective pain-relieving combination that can be useful in managing different types of pain. However, to avoid risks you should consult your doctor before using the medicines together.
Gabapentin and Naproxen mechanism of action
Gabapentin works to reduce pain by affecting the pain messages traveling through the brain and spine. On the other hand, Naproxen is a non-selective NSAID that blocks the enzymes responsible for pain. COX-1 enzymes (associated with maintaining gut lining) and COX-2 enzymes (associated with pain signaling and inflammation). This results in its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
You can buy Naprosyn 500 at WowRx at reasonable prices.
Gabapentin and Naproxen interaction
According to drugs.com, Gabapentin and Naproxen have no known interactions. However, a study by Robert W Hurley found that Naproxen can interact with Gabapentin beneficially. It can reverse thermal hyperalgesia (increased pain sensitivity triggered by heat) associated with inflammation. So, their low-dose combination and interaction can be an advantage for treating inflammatory pain.
Another study by Ritu Lal interpreted the interaction of Gabapentin Enacarbil with Naproxen. It concluded that Gabapentin did not affect Naproxen exposure and needed no dose adjustment for co-administration. Therefore, they can be used safely simultaneously.
However, it is best to consult a doctor before using them together to determine if you need to take both of them.
Who should not use Gabapentin and Naproxen?
Gabapentin and Naproxen may not be safe for everyone. You should avoid Gabapentin if you are allergic to it or similar drugs, are pregnant or planning to be, have kidney problems, or are on a controlled sodium and potassium diet.
Avoid Naproxen if you have high blood pressure, kidney, liver, or heart issues, a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding, lupus, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or a blood-clotting disorder; if you’re allergic to Naproxen or other NSAIDs; or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 12 years old without a prescription.
Conclusion
Gabapentin and Naproxen are different types of drugs. Naproxen is an NSAID primarily used as a painkiller, and Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizures and nerve pain. However, both can be used to relieve pain in many cases. According to current studies, they have no relevant interactions or adverse effects when used together.
In fact, their combination can be beneficial in treating pain. Still, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using both medicines together. Overall, the combination of Naproxen and Gabapentin can have therapeutic advantages in treating pain and even provide an effective option for improvement in pain management in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
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