Anaprox DS (Naproxen Sodium)

What is Anaprox DS?

Anaprox (naproxen) is an oral drug which belongs to the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What is Anaprox DS used for?

Anaprox is used to provide relief from pain, swelling, joint stiffness caused by arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, bursitis and gout attacks. It is also used in the treatment of various other conditions such as headache, backache, muscle ache, dental pain, tendonitis, menstrual cramps etc.

How does Anaprox DS work?

Anaprox is an NSAID and its mechanism of action yet to be fully understood. However its action is assumed to be related to prostaglandin synthetase inhibition, i.e. it blocks the action of inflammation-causing hormones thereby reducing pain and inflammation.

How to use Anaprox DS

Anaprox should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the medicine for a longer time or in larger amount than prescribed may prove to be harmful. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Anaprox is usually taken orally with a glass full of water. It may be taken with food, milk or antacid to prevent stomach upset. The extended release tablets should be swallowed whole and not be broken, opened or crushed. In case you are using an oral medication measure your dose carefully with a dose-measuring device.

You should avoid lying down within 10 minutes of taking Anaprox.

The drug should be taken regularly for the best results.

Anaprox should ideally be used by taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. If you do not use the drug regularly and are taking it to treat symptoms such as headache, cramps etc. then it is best to take the drug at the first signs of pain. The medicine might not give expected results if taken after the pain has significantly worsened.

In conditions such as arthritis it may take up to 2 weeks for signs of improvement to show.

Anaprox DS warnings and precautions

Anaprox is not administered to patients who are allergic to naproxen or other NSAIDs. To prevent life-threatening consequences such as heart attack or stroke, avoid using the drug before or after a recent coronary artery bypass graft. Patients having a severe kidney disease are also advised against using this medication.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you smoke or are suffering from any of the following conditions: liver or kidney disease, a history of stomach ulcers, a history of heart disease, stroke or blood clotting disorders, congestive heart failure, asthma, high blood disorder, or nose polyps. You may need a dose adjustment in such cases.

Anaprox should be administered to older patients with extreme caution as the drug may cause bleeding or perforation of stomach or intestinal walls without warning. Such conditions may often become fatal in nature.

The medicine should not be given to a child younger than 2 years of age.

Anaprox may cause harmful effects on fetus, especially in the last three months of pregnancy. The drug is also believed to pass through breast milk and may cause harm to a nursing baby. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors. Also inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or plan a pregnancy during treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Anaprox DS dose?

If you have missed an Anaprox dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Anaprox DS overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Anaprox, seek medical attention immediately.

Anaprox DS interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Anaprox are: antidepressants, ACE inhibitors, anticoagulants, diuretics, steroids, lithium, cyclosporine, aspirin or other NSAIDs.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Anaprox.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Anaprox DS side effects

Side effects from Anaprox include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. as well as some serious symptoms such as bruising, muscle weakness, numbness, pain in muscles, shortness of breath, slurred speech, chest pain, vision problems, imbalance, decreased urination, rapid weight gain, swelling, symptoms of intestinal bleeding (black bloody tarry stools, blood in cough or vomit, vomit that looks like coffee grounds), jaundice, painful urination, blood in urine, loss of appetite, headache, peeling red skin rash, purple spot on skin, fever, seizure, neck stiffness.

Blurred vision, dizziness, headache, nervousness, stomach upset, diarrhea, bloating, constipation, mild heartburn, gas, mild skin rash, ringing in ears are some less serious side effects of Anaprox.