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(More customer reviews)Naproxen Sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drug (NSAID). This means it is NOT a steroid, such as cortisone or hydrocortisone, and it relieves inflammation, which is a central component of pain of any kind, be it joint pain, headache, migraine, etc.
As a class of drugs, NSAIDs are the most frequently prescribed analgesics for management of arthritic and musculoskeletal pain of mild to moderate intensity. All NSAIDs possess analgesic (pain relieving), antipyretic (anti-fever), and anti-inflammatory effects (reduces inflammation and swelling). Naproxen Sodium was first offered as a prescription drug in 1982, but had such a strong safety profile that it was listed as an over-the-counter medication in 1994.
Naproxen Sodium is absorbed rapidly following oral administration. It achieves a peak blood concentration within 15 minutes to 2 hours. The main advantage to Naproxen Sodium is its long half-life (14 hours), which means how long its effect lasts in the body before it is excreted/metabolized. With the long half-life, Naproxen sodium only needs to be taken twice a day, or at most, three times a day. The tablets or capsules come in 220 mg dose sizes, and the maximum daily dose is 1250 mg per day. Thus, one could take two tablets twice a day for pain and be well under the maximum recommended daily dose. It is not recommended that one take Naproxen Sodium longer than 10 days.
In studies comparing Naproxen Sodium to aspirin, Naproxen Sodium was found to be 20 times stronger. It is about equally potent as 400-600 mg of Ibuprofen. Many of my patients have found it better than Ibuprofen, as it does not have to be dosed as frequently. Some beleive it is a bit more effective than Ibuprofen.
With all drugs there are side-effects, and Naproxen Sodium has several significant effects that the buyer will need to consider. First, like all NSAIDS, Naproxen Sodium can cause stomach bleeding, ulcers, and even sudden stomach perforation. If you have stomach ulcers or are prone to GI bleeding, it is best to consult your MD before beginning Naproxen Sodium. Naproxen Sodium can also increase bleeding tendencies, as it prevents platelets from clotting together. People with heart conditions who use Naproxen can experience swelling of the arms, legs, and feet. Report any adverse side-effects to your MD immediately and discontinue Naproxen.
In my experience with this medication and in prescribing it for my patients, I recommend they take it with a small amount of food to lessen the direct contact with the stomach lining.
Naproxen Sodium is also sold as "Aleve". Aleve is about twice as expensive as the generic Naproxen. Generic and Aleve are the exact same drug, so why pay more for the brand name? This is a good buy and an effective product.
Jim Koenig, DDS
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