Naprosyn 500 is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug containing Naproxen as its active ingredient. It is prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation caused by various conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other musculoskeletal disorders. 

While it is highly effective in managing pain, like any medication, Naprosyn 500 is not without its potential side effects. Some common side effects of Naprosyn 500 include stomach upset, heartburn, and dizziness, which are usually mild and temporary. 

This article looks at the Naprosyn 500 side effects to help people make informed decisions and recognize any adverse reactions.

Common side effects of Naprosyn

Common side effects of Naproxen, which occur in more than 1 in 100 people, include:

  • Confusion: Some users may experience confusion as a side effect of Naprosyn
  • Headache: These are common occurrences in individuals taking Naprosyn 500
  • Ringing in the years: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can manifest as a side effect of Naprosyn use
  • Changes in vision: Some users may notice changes in their vision while taking Naprosyn.
  • Feeling sleepy or tired: Naprosyn can induce feelings of drowsiness or fatigue in some individuals.
  • Feeling dizzy: Dizziness is another common side effect associated with Naprosyn.
  • Rashes: Skin rashes may develop as a reaction to Naprosyn in some users 

Serious side effects of Naprosyn

Naprosyn 500, though effective for pain and inflammation, can cause serious side effects that affect various parts of the body. 

Fact
Naprosyn 500 is usually prescribed to children who are 12 years and above, and a doctor should be consulted before giving it to children younger than 12 years.

Stomach and gut problems

The signs of stomach problems due to Naprosyn include:

  • Bleeding from the stomach or anus, evident as blood in vomit or stool resembling coffee grounds
  • Formation of ulcers or holes in the stomach or gut, characterized by upset stomach, pain, and vomiting
  • Pancreatitis presents as severe abdominal pain spreading to the back
  • Exacerbation of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, manifesting as pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.

Allergic reactions

Naprosyn can cause some allergic reactions such as: 

  • Sudden swelling of the throat, face, hands, or feet
  • Difficulty breathing and tightness in the chest
  • Skin manifestations such as rashes, blisters, or itching.

Severe skin reactions

You might also experience severe skin reactions, which include: 

  • The rapid development of severe rash with blisters or skin peeling, potentially involving the mouth, throat, or eyes, accompanied by fever and body aches
  • Skin blistering because of sunlight is primarily observed in exposed areas like the arms, face, and hands

Liver problems

A magnified view of damaged liver
A magnified view of damaged liver

Taking Naprosyn causes some issues in the liver, such as:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), fatigue, or loss of appetite
  • Nausea, pale stools, indicative of hepatitis or liver damage

Meningitis

Fever, nausea, stiff neck, headache, light sensitivity, and confusion, particularly in individuals with autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus.

Kidney

Naprosyn can affect kidney damage like: 

  • Symptoms of kidney injury include fever, nausea, vomiting, flank pain, and changes in urinary habits
  • One significant complication is Acute Interstitial Nephritis (AIN), which involves inflammation of the kidney tissue between the tubules. This condition can lead to acute kidney injury (AKI) and impaired renal function
  • Moreover, a particularly rare but severe consequence of Naproxen use is Renal Cortical Necrosis (RCN). This condition can result in long-term kidney damage

Naprosyn’s long-term side effects

Long-term use of Naprosyn, or Naproxen, can potentially lead to serious side effects, particularly concerning the heart, stomach, and gastrointestinal tract.

Stomach Ulcer

One significant risk is the development of stomach ulcers. Naproxen has been associated with causing ulcers in the stomach or gut, especially when used over an extended period. Your doctor may advise against taking Naprosyn if you have a history of stomach ulcers or are currently experiencing one. 

Stomach ulcers induced by Naprosyn can manifest various symptoms. The most common indication is a 

  • Burning or pain located in the center of the stomach
  • Indigestion, heartburn, or nausea
Warning
Naprosyn 500 poses increased gastrointestinal risks for elderly patients and those with a history of peptic ulcers. So, if you notice any abdominal pain, black stools, or vomiting blood, contact your doctor promptly.

Cardiovascular problems

Naprosyn, an NSAID medication containing Naproxen, carries potential long-term side effects. Chronic use of Naprosyn can heighten the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events like myocardial infarction and stroke, which have the potential to be fatal. 

You can feel heart attack symptoms like chest pain traveling to the neck and shoulders and down the left arm. This risk is particularly elevated in individuals who have a history of cardiovascular disease. 

Other possible side effects

Naprosyn may lead to a range of side effects affecting various bodily systems. These include gastrointestinal discomfort and potential impacts on mental health and circulation.

  • Stomach and gut: Heartburn, indigestion, stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and flatulence
  • Blood: Anemia, changes in white blood cell count
  • Mental health: Sleep disturbances, changes in dreaming patterns, depression, hallucinations, confusion
  • Chest: Breathing difficulties, wheezing, coughing, pneumonia, lung swelling
  • Urinary: Blood in urine, kidney problems
  • Other symptoms: Thirst, fever, fatigue, mouth ulcers, muscle pain or weakness, fertility issues, and systemic lupus erythematosus symptoms

Conclusion

While Naprosyn 500, containing Naproxen, effectively alleviates pain and inflammation associated with various conditions, it’s crucial to be aware of its potential side effects. From mild discomforts like stomach upset to severe complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding, allergic reactions, and even cardiovascular events, Naprosyn carries various risks.

Long-term use of Naprosyn can make these risks worse, particularly concerning the heart, stomach, and kidneys. Individuals with preexisting conditions or those vulnerable to certain complications should be cautious when using this medication. 

While Naprosyn provides valuable relief for many, understanding its spectrum of side effects empowers individuals to make informed choices about their treatment options. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common side effect of Naproxen?

The most common side effect of Naproxen, the active ingredient in Naprosyn, is gastrointestinal discomfort. This can include symptoms such as stomach upset, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and flatulence.

What does Naprosyn do to the body?

Naprosyn is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug that reduces pain and inflammation caused by various conditions. This includes conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal disorders. It stops the production of prostaglandins in the body, which causes inflammation, pain, and fever.

Is Naprosyn safe to take every day?

While Naprosyn can be taken daily to relieve pain and inflammation, it’s important to use it as directed by a healthcare professional and to avoid exceeding the recommended dosage. Prolonged or excessive use of Naprosyn can increase the risk of serious side effects. 

Which is safer Ibuprofen or Naprosyn?

Both Ibuprofen and Naprosyn belong to the NSAID class of medications and carry similar risks of gastrointestinal irritation, cardiovascular events, and kidney problems. However, some studies suggest that Naproxen may have a slightly lower risk of cardiovascular complications compared to Ibuprofen, particularly at higher doses and with long-term use. 

Citations:
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