Getting The Most From Your Naproxen Treatment
- Your doctor will try to prescribe you the lowest dose for the shortest time in order to reduce the risk of side-effects. If you need to take naproxen for a long time, your doctor may want to prescribe another medicine along with it to protect your stomach or intestines from irritation. Alternatively, you may be prescribed a brand of naproxen which already contains a protective medicine. An example of a combination brand is Vimovoî which contains naproxen and esomeprazole.
- Try to keep any regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress, and is especially important if you are taking naproxen for a long-term condition.
- If you have asthma, symptoms such as wheeze or breathlessness can be made worse by anti-inflammatories such as naproxen. If this happens to you, you should stop taking the tablets and see your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with an anti-inflammatory like naproxen. This is because you should not take these tablets with any other anti-inflammatory painkiller, some of which are available in cold and flu remedies which can be bought over the counter.
- If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Recommended Reading: What Causes Inflammation With Arthritis
Overdose: What Happens If I Take Too Much Naprosyn
Taking too much Naprosyn can cause some common and less severe symptoms, including:
- Difficulty breathing
If you overdose on naproxen and go to the hospital, there are various methods of treatment to remove naproxen from the body. You may need to vomit or take activated charcoal to prevent further drug absorption.
In some instances, you might undergo a procedure called osmotic catharsis. You would only need osmotic catharsis if substantial amounts of Naprosyn are taken or if you are taken to the hospital within four hours of the overdose.
Recommended Reading: Remedy For Arthritis In Fingers
What Is A Generic Drug
Generic drugs are the same medicine as the brand name but will cost less. Generics will have the same “dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. This means you can take the generic drug and still get the same benefits and effects as the brand-name drug.
Recommended Reading: How Does Enbrel Work For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Advil Or Aleve: Which Is Better For Knee Pain
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium have been shown to be effective for relieving knee pain. A numbing agent, such as lidocaine or capsaicin, the substance that causes chili peppers to be hot, can help relieve pain caused by arthritis in the knee. When children have acute pain, an Advil is the best option for treating it. Aleve is ideal for those suffering from chronic conditions. Why is Aleve better than Tylenol for knee pain? When an injury, such as a sprains or arthritis, requires pain relief, Tylenol will not be effective in comparison to Advil or Aleve. acetaminophen, on the other hand, can aid in the reduction of body temperature.
Can I Take Nsaids If I Have High Blood Pressure

Your doctor will check on that. NSAIDs can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, which may cause these organs not to work as well. This makes fluid build up in your body, which can raise your blood pressure.
So, if you take these meds, you will probably get a blood test from time to time to check how well your kidneys work.
Recommended Reading: What’s Best For Rheumatoid Arthritis
What Is The Dosage For Acetaminophen Vs Ibuprofen
Acetaminophen dosage
- The dose for adults is 325 to 650 mg every 4 hours or 500 mg every 8 hours when using immediate release formulations.
- The dose for extended release caplet is 1300 mg every 8 hours.
- The maximum daily dose is 4 grams.
- The oral dose for a child is based on the childâs age and weight. If less than 12 years old the dosing is 10-15 mg/kg every 6-8 hours not to exceed 2.6 g/day . If older than 12 years of age the dose is 40-60 mg/kg/day every 6 hours not to exceed 3.75 g/day .
Ibuprofen dosage
- For minor aches, mild to moderate pain, menstrual cramps, and fever, the usual adult dose is 200 or 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours.
- Arthritis is treated with 300 to 800 mg 3 or 4 times daily.
- When under the care of a physician, the maximum dose of ibuprofen is 3.2 g daily. Otherwise, the maximum dose is 1.2 g daily.
- Individuals should not use ibuprofen for more than 10 days for the treatment of pain or more than 3 days for the treatment of a fever unless directed by a physician.
- Children 6 months to 12 years of age usually are given 5-10 mg/kg of ibuprofen every 6-8 hours for the treatment of fever and pain. The maximum dose is 40 mg/kg daily.
- Juvenile arthritis is treated with 20 to 40 mg/kg/day in 3-4 divided doses.
- Ibuprofen should be taken with meals to prevent stomach upset.
Dosage Forms & Strengths
- Cancer pain : 5-7 mg/kg PO q8-12hr not to exceed 1000 mg/day
> 12 years
- 500 mg PO initially, then 250 mg PO q6-8hr or 500 mg PO q12hr PRN not to exceed 1250 mg/day naproxen base on day 1 subsequent daily doses should not exceed 1000 mg naproxen base
- Extended release: 750-1000 mg PO qDay may temporarily increase to 1500 mg/day if tolerated well and clinically indicated
Read Also: What Foods To Avoid When You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis
In What Cases Should I Check With My Doctor Before Taking Nsaids
If you have any of the following conditions or circumstances please check with your doctor before you take NSAIDs:
- Children and teenagers with viral infections should not receive aspirin or aspirin-containing products due to the risk of Reyeâs syndrome .
- Those who have an upcoming surgical procedure, including dental surgery.
- People who have three or more alcoholic beverages per day.
- Asthma that gets worse when taking aspirin.
- If you are 65 years of age or older.
Disease states
- History of stroke or heart attack.
Allergic and drug interactions
What Is The Dosage Of Aleve Vs Celebrex
Aleve dosage
- Naproxen should be given with food to reduce upset stomach.
- usual adult dose for pain is 250 every 6 to 8 hours or 500 mg twice daily using regular naproxen tablets.
- The usual dose for Naprelan controlled release tablets is 750 to 1000 mg given once daily.
- For EC-Naprosyn, the usual dose is 375-500 mg twice daily.
- The dose for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis is 500 to 1000 mg every 12 hours.
- Menstrual cramps are treated with 250 mg every 6 to 8 hours after an initial dose of 500 mg.
Celebrex dosage
- The lowest effective dose should be used for each patient.
- For the management of osteoarthritis, the dose usually is 100 mg twice daily or 200 mg as a single dose.
- For rheumatoid arthritis, the dose usually is 200 mg twice daily.
- For acute pain or menstrual cramps, the dose is 400 mg as a single dose on the first day followed by an additional 200 mg if needed, then 200 mg twice daily as needed.
- For FAP, the recommended dose is 400 mg twice daily.
Don’t Miss: What Causes Arthritis To Flare Up In The Knee
Best Medicine For Knee Pain In Old Age
You might be able to get relief from knee pain if you take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium . A few people have reported relief from knee pain by rubbing their affected knee with creams containing numbing agents, such as lidocaine or capsaicin, which causes chili peppers to become hot.
When you have knee pain, it can become more painful as time passes. Mild to severe knee pain can be treated with a variety of medications. OTC medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or acetaminophen may be helpful. A doctor can prescribe a variety of pain medications, including acetaminophen. If taken in large amounts, a persons liver may be damaged. It is possible that gastrointestinal problems are caused by NSAIDs and coxibs, both of which are known by their names. Hydrocortisone injections can be effective in relieving knee pain from a variety of causes, including arthritis and injury.
In some cases, an injection of hyaluronic acid into the knee can be used to increase the amount of hyaluronic acid available. This type of exercise can help relieve pain as well as other symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee joint. In addition to resting and raising the knee, applying ice can help relieve knee pain at home.
What Other Information Should I Know
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking naproxen.
If you are taking prescription naproxen, do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Read Also: Can You Get Arthritis In Your Back
You May Like: What Causes Psoriatic Arthritis Flare Ups
Acetaminophen Vs Ibuprofen Vs Naproxen Vs Aspirin For Arthritis
There are two different types of arthritis that are treated differently with over-the-counter medications. Osteoarthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear on the joints. OA is most commonly treated with acetaminophen . On the other hand, inflammatory arthritis , is most commonly treated with ibuprofen to fight the inflammation within the joints. It is important to discuss what treatment is best with a healthcare provider.
Will Changing My Diet Help My Rheumatoid Arthritis

When combined with the treatments and medications your provider recommends, changes in diet may help reduce inflammation and other symptoms of RA. But it wont cure you. You can talk with your doctor about adding good fats and minimizing bad fats, salt and processed carbohydrates. No herbal or nutritional supplements, like collagen, can cure rheumatoid arthritis. These dietary changes are safer and most successful when monitored by your rheumatologist.
But there are lifestyle changes you can make that may help relieve your symptoms. Your rheumatologist may recommend weight loss to reduce stress on inflamed joints.
People with rheumatoid arthritis also have a higher risk of coronary artery disease. High blood cholesterol can respond to changes in diet. A nutritionist can recommend specific foods to eat or avoid to reach a desirable cholesterol level.
Recommended Reading: Are Eggs Good For Rheumatoid Arthritis
What Should I Know About Storage And Disposal Of This Medication
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture .
It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location â one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach.
Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDAs Safe Disposal of Medicines website for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.
Dont Miss: Is Cheese Good For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Are Celebrex And Naproxen The Same
Celebrex and naproxen are both NSAIDs, but they are not the same. Celebrex is only available with a prescription, while naproxen comes in both prescription and over-the-counter dosage forms. Celebrex is only available as an oral capsule while naproxen is available as an oral capsule, tablet, delayed-release tablet, and liquid suspension.
Don’t Miss: Does Barometric Pressure Affect Arthritis
Are Aleve Or Celebrex Safe To Take If I Am Pregnant Or Breastfeeding
Aleve safety
- NSAIDs may cause a fetal birth defect called ductus arteriosus in the third trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, NSAIDs should be avoided during this last part of pregnancy.
- A small amount of naproxen is excreted in breast milk. Because the concentration in breast milk is low, breastfeeding while taking naproxen probably is not harmful to the infant.
Celebrex safety
- Celecoxib has not been studied in pregnant women. In animal studies, doses that were twice the maximally recommended dose were harmful to the fetus. It should not be used in late pregnancy because there is a risk of heart defects in the newborn. Celecoxib should only be used in pregnant women when the benefits outweigh the potential risk to the fetus.
- Available evidence suggests that celecoxib is secreted in breast milk. Nursing mothers should avoid celecoxib or discontinue breastfeeding.
Aleve For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Overview
Aleve is an over-the-counter medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is also known by its drug name, Naproxen. Stronger doses of Naproxen are available by prescription. Aleve is used to treat joint pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis.Aleve should not be used by people who are allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Celebrex or Ibuprofen. Aleve should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Aleve may not be appropriate for people with liver or kidney problems.
Aleve is an NSAID. NSAIDs help reduce fever, pain, and inflammation. Aleve is believed to work by inhibiting the production of chemicals that promote inflammation in the body.
How do I take it?Always check with your doctor before taking a new medication, including over-the-counter medications.
Take Aleve according to directions given by your doctor or found on the medication package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. When taking NSAIDs, it is important to use the lowest dose that is effective and to take it for the shortest amount of time in order to avoid side effects.
Take Aleve with food or after meals.
Always follow your doctors instructions exactly when taking Aleve.
Side effectsRare but serious side effects of Aleve can include gastrointestinal bleeding, damage to the liver and kidneys, and increased risk for heart attack or stroke.
Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as
Don’t Miss: What Happens When You Have Arthritis In Your Knee
How To Use Pain Medications Properly
There are two types of over-the-counter pain medications that can be used for osteoarthritis. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever but not an anti-inflammatory. It may help with mild knee pain.
NSAIDs can be more effective because they both relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, they come with potential side effects and risks. NSAIDs can irritate the lining of the stomach, which may lead to an ulcer or other stomach problems. They also can impair kidney function. Some NSAIDs can increase blood pressure. And theyve been linked to an increased risk for heart disease.
Because of the risks, Dr. Day cautions against using NSAIDs regularly over long periods of time. Instead, she uses NSAIDs for her patients in two ways. First, people who have a flare-up of pain can take them regularly for three to five days and then stop. Second, they can be used over the long term, but only occasionally, maybe a couple of times a week as needed.
If youre taking NSAIDs several times a day for long periods of time, Dr. Day advises reducing their use by maximizing the other treatment strategies. She also suggests trying a topical NSAID, such as diclofenac , which has fewer potential side effects.
Opioid pain relievers are discouraged for long-term treatment of chronic knee pain. The milder narcotic tramadol might be appropriate for occasional use in some people, says Dr. Day.
Recommended Reading: Arthritis In Hands Pain Relief
What Else Can I Do To Lower My Risk Of Gi Symptoms While Taking An Nsaid
You should never take NSAIDs on an empty stomach. Its best to take them with water and at the end of a meal to help reduce stomach irritation. Its also a good idea to limit your alcohol intake while youre on NSAIDs because alcohol also irritates the stomach. Finally, never take a higher dose of your NSAID than what your doctor has recommended.
Don’t Miss: Does Tremfya Treat Psoriatic Arthritis
What About The Cardiovascular Risks Of Nsaids
Most NSAIDs with the exception of aspirin come with a small increase in the cardiovascular events such as high blood pressure and heart failure. That risk may be somewhat higher among Celebrex users, though both kinds of NSAIDs can increase the risk of cardiovascular events.
However, for people with inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, the cardiovascular risks of taking NSAIDs may be less than that of the general population, some studies suggest. RA and other types of inflammatory arthritis increase your risk of heart disease to begin with, so it may be the case that these drugs anti-inflammatory effects reduce the risk in this specific population, though more research is needed.
Whats more, having good control of disease activity in inflammatory arthritis can also help lower your cardiovascular risks. Drugs that help reduce inflammation in the joints, such as disease-modifying medications and biologics may reduce the development and progression of heart disease.
Bottom line: Your heart disease risk from taking NSAIDs will vary based on your own personal heart disease risk factors as well as factors related to the medication. Heart attack risk increases with patients on higher doses for longer periods of time and who have established cardiovascular disease.
This is why doctors want to start patients on the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.