Naproxen

What is naproxen?

Naproxen is a medicine that is used to reduce pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness caused by many conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and surgical operations. Your doctor will decide whether this medicine will help you. You may hear naproxen called by its brand name, Naprosyn.

How should I give my child naproxen?

Follow these instructions when you give your child naproxen:

• Give this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.
• Give naproxen with food or milk to reduce the chance of an upset stomach.
• Shake well and give with the special spoon or syringe the pharmacist gave you, if your child is taking the liquid form of naproxen. Keep this medicine at room temperature.
• Do not give naproxen at the same time as antacids.
• Do not break or crush controlled release tablets.

What should I do if my child misses a dose of naproxen?

If this medicine was ordered to be given regularly (not "as needed") and your child misses a dose:

• Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give your child the next dose at the regular time.
• Give your child only one dose at a time as written on the prescription.

What are the possible side effects of naproxen?

Call your doctor if your child continues to have any of these signs or symptoms:

• dizziness or lightheadedness
• headache
• upset stomach or throwing up
• stomach pain
• pain which does not go away
• drowsiness

Call your doctor immediately if your child has:

• a rash or itchy skin
• "ringing" in the ears
• bloody or black tarry stools
• blurred vision
• tightness in the chest, wheezing, or trouble breathing

What other information should I know about naproxen?

• Tell your child's doctor if your child has any allergies to medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Check with your child's pharmacist or doctor before you give your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products).
• Naproxen may take several weeks to have its full effect in conditions like arthritis. Do not stop giving the medicine unless told to do so by your doctor.
• Naproxen may make your child more likely to sunburn. Your child must cover up with clothing and a hat or use strong sunscreen.  Look for a sunscreen that protects against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 15. Ask your pharmacist to help you pick the right sunscreen.
• Before your child has any surgery, including dental surgery or emergency treatment, tell the doctor or dentist that your child is taking naproxen.
• Keep all appointments at the clinic or doctor's office. If your child will be taking this medicine for a long time (such as for arthritis), your doctor will check your child's progress regularly.
• Make sure you always have enough naproxen to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least two days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills.
• If you have any concerns about this medicine or the effect on your child's condition, check with your doctor.
  

Keep naproxen out of your child’s sight and reach and locked up in a safe place. If your child takes too much naproxen, call your local Poison Information Centre at one of these numbers. These calls are free. 

• Call 1-844 POISON-X, or 1-844-764-7669, from anywhere in Canada except Quebec.
• Call 1-800-463-5060 if you live in Quebec.