NAPROXEN

What is it used for?

• Naproxen is used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, sometimes known as an NSAID. Naproxen is also known as a COX inhibitor as it blocks the action of a chemical in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX).
• It is used to relieve pain and inflammation in a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions including various types of arthritis- a painful condition of the joints. Naproxen can also be used to relieve period pain.
• In general this drug is used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (including in children), ankylosing spondylitis, attacks of gout and other musculoskeletal conditions such as joint pain, muscular pain and back pain as well as painful periods. Naproxen works by blocking the action of cyclo-oxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of chemicals that cause pain, swelling and inflammation.
• Benefits of being on this drug can include a reduction in the level of pain and inflammation leading to an improvement in the movement and mobility of people with conditions affecting muscles and joints. This also helps improve the general quality of life of people with these conditions.

Listed below are the typical uses of naproxen.

• Rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory type of arthritis normally starting in the hands)
• Osteoarthritis (a degenerative type of arthritis caused by wear and tear)
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis affecting the spine)
• Other musculoskeletal conditions such as joint pain, back pain, gout, muscle strains and tendonitis
• Period pain (dysmenorrhoea)

On occasion your doctor may prescribe this medicine to treat a condition not on the above list.