Naproxen

definition

Naproxen is a pain reliever that belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is contained in the well-known Dolormin®. There is also the not so common name (S) -2- (6-methoxy-2-naphthyl) propionic acid, which describes the chemical structure of naproxen in more detail.

Naproxen has been available without a prescription in Germany for single doses below 250 mg since 2002.

Trade names

The active ingredient naproxen is contained in the following single or combined preparations: Alacetan®, Aleve®, Apranax®, Dolormin® for women, Dolormin® GS, Dysmenalgit®, Miranax®, Mobilat® Schmerztabletten, Naprobene®, Proxen®, Vimovo®.

Mechanism of action

Naproxen is used primarily for treatment rheumatic pain used. It works anti-inflammatory and analgesic by a very simple mechanism: Naproxen inhibits the formation of certain substances in our body, which are known as Inflammation mediators designated. These substances are released by the tissue in the event of injury, inflammation or a painful stimulus (for example a blow). Inflammation mediators then send the information that something is hurting to our brain, which ultimately makes us feel pain. An inflammation mediator is therefore, so to speak, a "Pain mediator". The inflammatory mediator that naproxen specifically inhibits is this Prostaglandin. This prostaglandin is produced in our body by the Cyclooxygenase enzyme - in short: COX - manufactured.
Naproxen is therefore a cyclooxygenase inhibitor: It prevents the pain-relieving substance prostaglandin from being created in the first place. The result of it all is pain relief, as the pain stimulus is no longer in the brain arrives. Naproxen has one long half-life, that means it's long im blood circulates without being broken down. The half-life is between 12 and 15 hours. It will be in the liver metabolized and ultimately via that kidney eliminated.

application

The active ingredient naproxen is used in the following cases:

  • to Relief of mild to moderate pain
  • Relief from Menstrual cramps (Dolormin® for women)
  • after inserting the Contraceptive coil for pain relief
  • for treatment rheumatic pain
  • Treatment of inflamed and swollen tissue, for example postoperatively
  • for smaller operations like Tooth extractions.

Side effects

Naproxen, like any other medicine, can be done naturally Side effects cause.

It can too Liver- and Kidney problems because it is there that drugs and toxins are metabolized and ultimately excreted. For example, one can follow increased blood pressure be. Furthermore are allergic reaction, in the sense of Skin irritation, known.
Stomach ulcers, diarrhea or Vomit can occur. It can also too a headache, dizziness or Drowsiness come.
Also a so called Analgesic asthma can occur. An elevated one Risk of stroke may result from taking naproxen.

Naproxen exhibits in comparison to other anti-rheumatic agents of the class NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that lowest risk of heart attacks and strokes on. It should always be based on one when taking medication adequate water supply be respected. For children under 12 years is naproxen not suitable.

Naproxen and alcohol - are they compatible?

If you take pain relievers such as naproxen, you should not consume alcohol at the same time. Possible side effects of the drug, such as irritation of the stomach lining, can be aggravated by the combination. But it also depends on what and in what amount you consume.

While wine or schnapps are particularly harmful in combination with naproxen, only minor effects are to be expected when drinking a glass of beer. However, anyone who consumes three or more alcoholic beverages a day while taking pain relievers has been shown to increase their risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Interactions and contraindications

It is known that simultaneous use with anticoagulant drugs like Marcumar® Bleeding may occur.
During the last three months of the pregnancy and Lactation should naproxen not used become.

With a well-known Allergy to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, serious Liver and kidney damage such as Bleeding, use is contraindicated. Also at Parkinson's disease and one Gastric ulcer Naproxen should not be used.

Naproxen can reduce the effects of various drugs strengthen or weakenwhy always consult a doctor should be kept regarding therapy with naproxen.

Exclusion of liability / disclaimer

We would like to point out that medication must never be discontinued, applied or changed independently without consulting your doctor.
Please note that we cannot claim that our texts are complete or correct. The information may be out of date due to current developments.