Naproxen for Lupus

Overview
Naproxen is an over-the-counter medication used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. It is sold under the brand names Aleve and Naprosyn. Stronger doses of Naproxen are available by prescription. Naproxen is used to treat pain, stiffness and discomfort caused by lupus in joints and other tissues.

Naproxen should not be used by people who are allergic to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen. Naproxen should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Naproxen may not be appropriate for people with liver or kidney problems.

Naproxen is an NSAID. NSAIDs help reduce fever, pain and inflammation. Naproxen is believed to work by inhibiting the production of chemicals that promote inflammation in the body.

How do I take it?
Always check with your doctor before taking a new medication, including over-the-counter medications.

Take Naproxen according to directions given by your doctor or found on the medication package. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. When taking NSAIDs, it is important to use the lowest dose that is effective, and to take it for the shortest amount of time in order to avoid side effects.

Take Naproxen with food or after meals.

People with lupus who take NSAIDs regularly should have their kidney function tested every three or four months.

Results
Studies have shown that as many as 75 percent of people with lupus take an NSAID every day. Of those, up to 3 percent experience gastrointestinal bleeds each year.

Side effects
Rare but serious side effects of Naproxen can include gastrointestinal bleeding, damage to the liver and kidneys and increased risk for heart attack or stroke.

Common side effects of Naproxen include heartburn, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, headache, itching, and changes in vision or hearing.

Contact your doctor if you experience chest pain, severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, black stools that appear bloody or tarry, yellowing of skin or eyes, mood changes, ringing in the ears, unexplained weight gain, or easy bleeding or bruising while taking Naproxen.

Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rash, or itching or swelling of the face, tongue and throat.