What Are the Dangers of Naproxin?

Naproxin, also known as Naproxen, Aleve, Feminax Ultra, Naprosyn and Synflex, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The medication is used to reduce stiffness and inflammation that may result from osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, gout, tendinitis and other ailments. While the drug is available over the counter, there are still side effects that need to be considered when taking Naproxen. Consult your doctor before taking any new medication.

Clotting Difficulty

• NSAIDs like Naproxen can limit the blood’s ability to clot. This means that after injuries or surgery, the drug may increase bleeding. Signs of increased bleeding in the intestine or stomach include dizziness, black tarry stools, and weakness upon standing up. If you already have an ailment connected with blood clotting, do not take Naproxen.

Interactions

• There are several drugs that should not be taken at the same time as Naproxen. For example, Naproxen reduces the effectiveness of blood pressure medications. Naproxen can increase the blood levels of lithium by reducing how much can be excreted from the kidneys; thus, a patient taking lithium should not take Naproxen. Since Naproxen thins blood, avoid taking it in conjunction with anticoagulants like Warfarin. Do not take Naproxen with other NSAIDS, diuretics or steroids.

Strokes and Heart Attacks

• In 2004, a clinical trial of elderly patients involving the Naproxen trade name Aleve was suspended because of increased incidence of “cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.” This Alzheimer’s disease-related trial revealed a higher rate of strokes and heart attacks than the control group. A later study performed at Johns Hopkins University found that 8.25 percent of patients taking Naproxen for more than three years had experienced a serious cardiac event, compared with 5.6 percent of the placebo group. If you have a family history of heart troubles or strokes, use a different pain reliever.

Gastrointestinal Issues

• NSAIDs like Naproxen may increase the risk of adverse gastrointestinal events. This may lead to ulceration, perforation of the stomach or intestines and gastrointestinal bleedings. Some of these events are without warning signs, and they are especially prevalent in elderly patients.

Other Potential Problems

• Naproxen may cause problems with vision or balance in some cases, so avoid driving or operating machinery when taking the drug. Taking Naproxen in the last few months of pregnancy may cause birth defects. Do not consume alcohol while using Naproxen. Naproxen may make skin more sensitive to the sun.