Anaprox DS (Naproxen sodium)

Do’s

• If you are taking Anaprox DS as an over-the-counter product, ensure to read all directions on the product package prior to administering this medication. 
• If your healthcare provider has prescribed this medication, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking it and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider for clarification.
• Anaprox DS should be taken by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, typically 2 or 3 times a day with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). 
• Take this medication with food, milk, or an antacid to lessen stomach discomfort.
• The dosage of Anaprox DS depends on your medical condition and your response to the medication. To mitigate the risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take Anaprox-DS at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible.
• If you have a chronic condition, such as arthritis, continue taking this medication as directed by your healthcare provider.
• For some conditions, like arthritis, it may take up to two weeks of regular Anaprox DS intake before you experience full relief.
• If you are taking Anaprox DS "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), keep in mind that pain medications are most effective when used at the onset of pain. If you wait until the pain has intensified, the medication may not work as effectively.
• Seek immediate medical help if your condition persists or worsens, or if you suspect a serious medical problem. If you are using a nonprescription product to treat a fever, consult your healthcare provider promptly if the fever escalates or lasts more than 3 days.

Don’ts

• To avoid issues such as heartburn or stomach upset, do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication.
• Do not increase your dose or administer this drug more frequently than directed by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the package label.

Common Side Effects;

• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Fluid retention
• Skin rash
• Ringing in the ears
• Upset stomach
• Mild heartburn
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gas
• Bloating
• Nervousness
• Skin itching 
• Blurred vision

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe stomach pain
• Black, bloody, or tarry stools
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Swelling or rapid weight gain
• Urinating less than usual or not at all
• Weakness, confusion, increased thirst, loss of appetite, vomiting, pounding heartbeats, or fluttering in your chest
• Severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling
• Liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Kidney problems: little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath
• Signs of a heart attack: chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating
• Signs of a stroke: sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), sudden severe headache, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance
• Low red blood cells (anemia): pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating

This is not a complete list of possible side effects, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider if they notice other effects not listed above. Additionally, if any of the serious side effects occur, medical help should be sought immediately.

Anaprox DS can increase the risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Use this medication cautiously, especially for individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease.

There is a risk of serious gastrointestinal events, including ulcers and bleeding in the stomach. This risk can be increased by factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, older age, and poor health. Seek medical attention immediately if stomach pain, blood in vomit, or stool is observed.

Anaprox DS is contraindicated in individuals with an allergy to aspirin and those who have undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

The safety and efficacy of Anaprox DS have not been established in children under 2 years of age. 

Precautions should be taken in individuals with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, exacerbation of chronic kidney disease, exacerbation of pre-existing hypertension or congestive heart failure, and risk of cardiovascular thrombotic events.

This is not a complete list of warnings and precautions associated with Anaprox DS. Individuals should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance before using this medication.