How does naproxen work?

Naproxen (what is naproxen) belongs to the category of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It can reduce inflammation and pain, as well as lower body temperature.

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs act by blocking the action of cyclooxygenase. These enzymes help to manufacture prostaglandins, a hormone like substance that typically leads to inflammation. Therefore, reducing the amount of prostaglandins will in turn reduce inflammation and pain.

There are two types of this enzyme, COX-1 and COX-2. It is the latter that is largely involved in the production of prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation. Interestingly, some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are selective, which means they only block COX-2 enzymes, but most are universal, including naproxen.

What is naproxen most effective for?

Due to its ability to alleviate inflammation and pain, it is typically used for diseases related to high-level inflammation. These include:

Dysmenorrhea
Osteoarthritis
Toothache
Muscle pain
Headache
Rheumatoid arthritis
Ankylosing spondylitis
Tendinitis
Gout
Bursitis
Joint injury
Arthritis related diseases (children and adolescents)
Musculoskeletal injury

Can Naproxen interact with other drugs?

Like most meditations, naproxen can interact with other drugs and change the way they act. This means that it may also stop working or may cause harm.

To avoid this situation, it is important for your doctor or healthcare provider to carefully manage all your medications. If you are taking other vitamins, supplements, or herbs that they may not be aware of, be sure to let them know.

Some common known interactions are with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which can increase the risk of gastric and intestinal bleeding when taken with naproxen.

Taking naproxen and antihypertensive drugs simultaneously may prevent the medication from controlling your blood pressure. If you get older, it may also cause kidney damage.

If you take heartburn medication, you may find that naproxen does not work, or it may take longer to take effect.

Is naproxen and tramadol the same thing?

No, tramadol and naproxen are not the same thing.