Manzoor (Pharm-D)

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Methyldopa: Uses, Side effects, Dosage

Methyldopa produces its antihypertensive effect by acting on the alpha adrenoceptors in the vasomotor center of the brain.though it is sympathomimetic drug they can cause decreased activity of the sympathetic nervous system to the cardiovascular system by acting as an agonist on the alpha-adrenoceptors, leading to falling in blood pressure. Methyldopa when given orally or parenterally, passes into the brain by an active process.it is converted in the brain into alpha methyldopa>>>alpha methyldopamine>>>alpha methyl noradrenaline.Alpha methyl noradrenaline then acts on alpha adrenoceptors in the vasomotor center of the brain and inhibit the sympathetic outflow to the peripheral tissues, especially CVS.Methyldopa produces its antihypertensive effects by causing reduction of peripheral vascular resistance. It is one of the safest antihypertensive drug in Pregnancy. Its maximum antihypertensive effect occurs in 4-6hoirs and then persist for about 24hours. Pharmacokinetics: Absorption of methyldopa after oral administration is incomplete and its bioavailability after oral administration is about 25%.Most of the drug is excreted unchanged in the urine i.e about two third and the remaining is metabolized in the liver.its dosage should be reduced in renal and hepatic failure. Methyldopa Adverse effects: The Most common side effects related tothis drug are the following; Sedation, Dizziness, Dry mouth and postural hypotension. Other less common adverse effects include anxiety, blurred vision, sleep disturbances, parkinsonism, and impotence. More serious but rare adverse effects are hemolytic anemia, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and a lupus erythematosus-like syndrome.Hepatitis with methyldopa is usually reversible when the drug is stopped .it usually occurs during the initial two months of therapy, but sometimes it can occur after a prolonged therapy with the drug. Doses: A dose of 500-2000mg daily in a single or 2-3 divided doses orally .injection of methyldopa is available as 5 ml ampoules containing 50mg/ml. A dose of 250-500mg by IV infusion and can be repeated after every six hours.

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Pentazocine: Uses, Side effects, Dosage

Pentazocine is a synthetic opioid that has agonist activity at kappa and weak antagonist activity at Mu receptors. Pentazocine is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. Its analgesic activity is almost equal to that of morphine. It has a short duration of action i.e 3-4 hours. Pentazocine is Available in Combination with Naloxone To Avoid its misuse various Available in various dosage forms like Tablet and Injection. 50mg of pentazocine orally is almost equal to 60mg of oral codeine in analgesic activity. Nausea and vomiting are common with pentazocine. Dependence and tolerance can occur but is less as compared to that of morphine. Pentazocine can produce mental confusion, tachycardia, dysphoria, Hypertension, and Palpitations. Also, Causes Trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine. Should be used with cautions in the following conditions; cardiac arrhythmias, Phaeochromocytoma, Pancreatitis, Arterial or pulmonary hypertension, And acute myocardial infarction.   This drug can enter the foetal circulation and has the potential to cause opioid effects including central depression, can cause respiratory depression and withdrawal symptoms in the neonates if used during delivery. There is very less data on the secretion of pentazocine in breast milk, so it is recommended that infants of nursing mothers who are receiving high doses of pentazocine, be appropriately monitored Less Likely To Cause constipation. It is contraindicated in acute respiratory depression and in patients dependent on opioids, heart failure secondary to chronic lung disease, acute porphyria. Pentazocine may interact with the following medicines Like antihistamines,alcohol,atropine,anxiolytics or sleep,Medications,oxybutynin, tolterodine,certain medicines for depression like amitriptyline, fluoxetine, sertraline,certain medicines for stomach problems like dicyclomine, hyoscyamine,certain medicines for seizures like phenobarbital, primidone,certain medicines for travel sickness like scopolamine,certain medicines for Parkinson’s disease like benztropine, trihexyphenidyl,general anesthetics like halothane, isoflurane, methoxyflurane, propofol,ipratropium,MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate,medicines that relax muscles for surgery,local anesthetics like lidocaine, pramoxine, tetracaine,other narcotic medicines for pain or cough,phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine. Dosage Dosage for Adults: The usual initial dosage is 50mg every 3-4 hours after meals followed by 50-100mg every three to four hours.The maximum dose is 600 mg daily. Dose For Children under 12 years: It is recommended that another dosage form ie tablets, be used as appropriate for this age group.

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Antacids: Mechanism, Uses, Side effects

These are alkaline drugs which neutralize the gastric acid to form salts.Sodium, magnesium, and aluminum compounds are commonly used as antacids. Sodium Bicarbonate acts quickly but has a significant absorption from GIt.Thus It can Cause alkalosis with its prolonged use especially in patients with renal failure.Magnesium compounds such magnesium oxide and magnesium hydroxide act quickly to neutralize the acid, but they tend to cause diarrhea.Aluminium hydroxide is an effective antacid but it causes constipation.Thus, in antacid mixtures, magnesium and aluminum compounds are used in combination to prevent diarrhea or constipation. Common types of antacids: Sodium bicarbonate Magnesium carbonate Magnesium trisilicate Magnesium hydroxide Aluminium hydroxide Calcium carbonate Mechanism Of Action: Antacids work by counteracting (neutralizing) the acid on your stomach. They do this because the chemical compounds in antacids are bases (alkalis) that are the opposite of acids. A reaction among an acid and base is referred to as neutralization. This neutralization makes the stomach contents much less corrosive. This can assist to alleviate the pain related to ulcers and the burning sensation in acid reflux disease. Side effects: Though Side effects associated with antacid are very low, sometimes they can cause: flatulence diarrhea or constipation feeling sick or vomiting stomach cramps Uses: Antacids can be used to prevent ulcer symptoms, Thus they are used initially to relieve the discomfort of the patient. It can also be used in Peptic ulcer disease if given in sufficient amount for a sufficient period of time It Can Also be used to neutralize stomach acid and used in Dyspepsia. Also used to reduce symptoms of Gastro Esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

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Metformin: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage

Metformin is an oral antidiabetic drug, especially used in Noninsulin dependent Diabetes Mellitus Patients who are obese because it doesn’t cause an increase in body weight. On the other hand, body weight may be increased with insulin and sulphonylureas. It is excreted unchanged in the urine, and its plasma half-life is 1.30 to 3 hours. Clinical Uses: It is the drug of choice in non-insulin-dependentnoninsulin diabetes mellitus patients. It is also used along with sulphonylureas when blood glucose is not fully controlled with sulphonylureas alone. It is also used in polycystic ovary syndrome (Unlicensed use) Dose Of Metformin: The usual recommended dose is 0.5 -2.55g daily in two to three divided doses after meals. Metformin in Pregnancy: It can be used in pregnancy for both pre-existing and gestational diabetes. Mechanism Of Action Its exact mechanism of action is unknown, but it seems to inhibit the formation of glucose in the liver (gluconeogenesis). Another possible mechanism of action may decrease glucose absorption from the GIT and increase its uptake by the skeletal muscle. Adverse Effects: Anorexia, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common adverse effects associated with metformin. These can be reduced by starting the drug with a small dose after meals and then gradually increasing the dose. Cold Feeling in your arms and legs. Chronic administration of metformin may decrease the absorption of vitamin B12 from the intestine. Hence, serum vitamin B12 Should be monitored during chronic administration of biguanides, and if a deficiency occurs, then vitamin B12 should be given by injection. Lactic acidosis is a serious adverse effect that is more liable to occur in patients with renal failure, cardiorespiratory insufficiency, alcoholism, and elderly people. Trouble breathing. Related Article: Important information about Gaviscon

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Top 20 General Pharmacology Questions Every Student Should Know

Pharmacology is one of the most important subject in the Pharmacy profession as well as in medical field. Pharmacology is the corner stone of the modern pharmacy. Here is a list of important General Pharmacology Questions which every pharmacy and medical students should know. Top 20 General Pharmacology Questions Q.1  What is Pharmacology? Ans: Pharmacology is a branch of science that deals with the interaction of drugs with living organisms. Or The study of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics. Q.2 What is a Drug? Ans: A drug is any chemical entity that causes a change in biological function in a living organism.some drugs are formed inside the body such as insulin and noradrenaline etc.drugs that are introduced into the body from outside are called Xenobiotics. Q.3 What Is a Dose? Ans: A Specific Amount of Drug Prescribed to be taken at one time. Q.4 What Is Blood Brain Barrier? It is A Tight Endothelial Cells Of the Brain Capillaries And Glial Cells Of The Brain Around The blood capillaries that doesn’t allow the passage of certain lipid insoluble substances to pass from the blood into the brain.Lipid Soluble Drugs can easily Cross This Barrier.Examples Of Lipid soluble Drugs are; Diazepam, Thiopental, And Phenobarbitol. Q.5 What is Volume Of Distribution? Ans: The total Volume Of The Body Fluid in which a drug appears to be distributed according to its concentration in the blood or plasma.VD of a drug can be determined by the following Formula, VD (Volume OF Distribution) =Total Amount OF Drug In the Body/Concentration of drug in the blood plasma. Q.6 What Is Potency? Ans: It is the weight of the drug that produces a certain magnitude of response.For Example Lesser the weight of drug required to produce a given effect, more its potency.Also More the weight of the drug required to produce the same effect lesser its potency.e.g Clonidine Produce its antihypertensive effect in 0.2-0.3mg Daily Dose.While Antihypertensive dose of methyldopa is 500-2000mg Per Day.Thus Clonidine IS more Potent than methyldopa. Q.7 What Is Efficacy? Ans:If the dose of a drug is increased its effect will be increased proportionately, until a stage is reached beyond there is no further increase in effect will occur,even if a large dose of drug is given.thix maximum effect of drug beyond which no further increase in its effect occurs even if the dose of the drug is increased to a large amount is called efficacy or maximal efficacy.example morphine has more efficacy than aspirin as an analgesic .morphine is more effective in the severe type of pains while aspirin is effective in mild to moderate pain. Q.8 What is Therapeutic index? The ratio between median toxic dose (TD50) and median effective dose (ED50) is called therapeutic index. Therapeutic index= TD50/ED50 Q.9 What is idiosyncrasy? It is a rare type of response to a drug that is not related to its dose, that is, even a small dose can cause it.For example.A rare adverse effect with chloramphenicol is aplastic anemia. Q.10 What is Hypersensitivity? An allergic or immunological response to a drug .for example anaphylactic shock with penicillin is a severe type of hypersensitivity reaction. Q.11 What is Tolerance? Ans: Repeated use of a drug causes a gradual decrease in the response to the drug.e.g chronic use of morphine will decrease many of its effects in the body, therefore the dose of the drug has to be increased with the passage of time to maintain the usual effects of the drug. Q.12 What is a Receptor? Ans: Receptor is a macromolecule (Big molecule).Most of the receptors are protein in nature.mostly those drugs that act on the cells bind to the receptors.Those drugs which bind to the receptor and show their effect are called agonists.While some drugs bind to the receptor but don’t produce an effect.These drugs are known as an antagonist as they prevent the binding of agonists with the receptors. Q.14 What is the adverse drug reaction? Drugs may produce two types of effect i.e Useful effects and harmful effects.harmful effects are also known as adverse drug reaction or undesired effects.These effects may range from the mild type of adverse effect to severe effects that may cause a death of the person. Adverse drug reaction may be classified into the following types; Idiosyncrasy Drug allergy Direct toxic effect Drug dependence Tolerance Q.15 What is Shock? It is a clinical condition in which there is an inadequate supply of blood to tissues.it causes hypotension, oliguria, and metabolic acidosis.Following are the common types of shock: A. Hypovolemic shock B. Septic shock C. Cardiogenic shock D. Anaphylactic shock Q.16 What is Drug Clearance? Ans: It Can be defined as Volume Of blood or plasma cleared of the drug in a unit period of time.Thus, to determine clearance we have to find that volume of blood or plasma from which a drug is removed during a unit period of time.By removal of drug we mean metabolism and excretion of drug.if we know the clearance of a drug we can adjust its dose properly.clearance of the drug can be determined by the following formula. Cl: Rate of elimination/Concentration of drug in the blood Where is Cl is clearance? Q.17 What is Drug Excretion? Ans: Removal of drugs from the body is known as their excretion.Drugs are excreted from the body either in the form of their metabolites or in unchanged form.Excretion can occur from the following routes; A) Faecal B) Renal C) Biliary D)Pulmonary E)Others like to sweat, saliva, milk etc Q.18 What is Toxicology? It is an aspect of pharmacology that deals with the adverse effects of drugs on living organisms .in addition to drugs used in therapy, it also deals with many other chemicals that may be responsible for the household, environmental, or industrial intoxication. Q.19 What is antidote? Ans: Antidotes are Any Substance which Is Used To oppose the effects of poisons without causing any damage to The body. Example antidote for benzodiazepine is flumazenil. Q.20 What is Bioavailability? It can be defined as a fraction of unmodified drug

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Clonidine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage

Clonidine is a prescription medication. It’s available as a patch, an oral tablet, and an oral extended-release tablet. The form you use may depend on your condition. Facts: Clonidine is a centrally-acting α2-adrenergic agonist. It crosses the blood-brain barrier. Clonidine lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. This allows your blood vessels to relax and your heart to beat more slowly and easily.Also used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD). Mechanism Of Action: Clonidine stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in the brain stem. This action results in reduced sympathetic outflow from the central nervous system and decreases in peripheral resistance, renal vascular resistance, heart rate, and blood pressure. Clonidine Side Effects: A very slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute); Fast or pounding heartbeats, tremors; Feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion; Confusion, hallucinations; Swelling, rapid weight gain; Feeling like you might pass out. Flu symptoms; Urination problems; or Other common side effects may include: Cold symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat; Feeling tired or irritable; Drowsiness, dizziness; A headache, ear pain; Mood changes; Sleep problems (insomnia), nightmares; Feeling hot; Mild fever; Loss of interest in sex, impotence, difficulty having an orgasm. Constipation, diarrhea, pain in your upper stomach; Dry mouth increased thirst; Clonidine Dosage The usual oral adult dose is 0.1–0.3 mg twice daily. The Usual Adult Dose For Hypertension is 0.2-0.6mg orally per day in a divided doses. The Usual Adult Dose for Pain Is 30mcg/hr As a continuous infusion. The Usual Pediatric Dose for attention deficit disorder (For age 6 year and more ) is 0.1 mg orally at bedtime and Increase in 0.1 mg/day increments every 7 days until desired response; doses should be administered twice daily . The maximum oral dose is 2.4 mg daily. Topical patches should be applied to an area of hairless skin on the upper arm or torso, once every 7 days. When applying a new topical patch, a different area of skin should be used.

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Important information about Nitroglycerin

Nitroglycerin is in a class of Prescription medications called vasodilators. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not need to work as hard and therefore does not need as much oxygen. Nitroglycerin are used to treat and prevent episodes of angina in indiviuals who have coronary artery disease (narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart). It is also used just before activities that may cause episodes of angina in order to prevent the angina from occurring. This drug works by relaxing the smooth muscle and blood vessels in your body. This increases the amount of blood and oxygen that reaches your heart. In turn, your heart works less hard. This reduces chest pain. This drug may lower your blood presure and orthostatic hypotension. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablet is available as both a generic and brand-name drug. Brand names: Nitrostat,Nitromist,Nitroquick,Nitrolingual,Nitro-Dur,Minitran,Nitro-Bid etc It was granted FDA approval in 1938. Side effects  Common side effects include: lightneadedness headache Other side effects include: Sweating a lot Nausea Vomiting Blurred vision Fainting Dry mouth Fast or slow heart beat Serious side effects: Low Blood pressure Flushing of the head and neck can occur. Pregnancy and Nitroglycerin: Nitroglycerin falls into category C. No animal studies have been conducted with nitroglycerin transdermal patches. No well-controlled studies have been conducted in pregnant women. Nitroglycerin should only be given to a pregnant woman if clearly needed.   Dosage For angina pectoris prophylaxis: SUBLINGUAL TABLET: 0.3 to 0.6 mg sublingually or in the buccal pouch 5 to 10 minutes prior to engaging in activities that might precipitate an acute attack . For Myocardial Infarction 5 mcg/min continuous IV infusion via non-absorptive tubing; increase by 5 mcg/min every 3 to 5 minutes as needed up to 20 mcg/min, then by 10 or 20 mcg/min if needed

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Hydrochlorothiazide

Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to a group of drugs called diuretics. It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of excess water and salt from the body into the urine. Facts: Hydrochlorothiazide is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat Hypertension (high blood pressure). Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat edema Or Swelling caused by various medical problems, including liver disease, heart, And kidney diseases and to treat edema caused by using certain medications including estrogen and corticosteroids. Hydrochlorothiazide may also be used to treat patients with diabetes insipidus and to prevent kidney stones in patients with high levels of calcium in their blood. It is a prescription drug. It comes as a capsule, tablet or solution that you take by mouth. Mechanism Of Action : Hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide water pill, inhibits water reabsorption within the nephron by inhibiting the sodium-chloride symporter in the distal convoluted tubule, that is responsible for 5% of total sodium reabsorption. Normally, the sodium-chloride symporter transports sodium and chloride from the lumen into the epithelial cell lining the distal convoluted tube-shaped structure. The energy for this can be provided by a sodium gradient established by sodium-potassium ATPases on the basolateral membrane. Once sodium has entered the cell, it’s transported out into the basolateral interstitium via the sodium-potassium ATPase, causing a rise in the osmolarity of the interstitium, thereby establishing an osmotic gradient for water reabsorption. By obstruction the sodium-chloride symporter, hydrochlorothiazide effectively reduces the osmotic gradient and water reabsorption throughout the tubule. Hydrochlorothiazide In Pregnancy: Many studies including a big data of almost 7000 neonates exposed to diuretics during pregnancy did not find an increased risk of adverse effects, such as fetal growth restriction birth defects, thrombocytopenia, or diabetes, among neonates exposed to diuretics in utero.The drug should be used if it is clearly needed. If you are diabetic, or allergic to sulfa medications, you should not use Hydrochlorothiazide. Forms And Strength : Available in Oral Tablet as both Generic (Hydrochlorothiazide) And Brand (Microzide): Strengths: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg Dosage: The usual adult dose for treating edema is 25-100 mg once daily or in divided doses. The usual adult dose for hypertension is 12.5 to 50 mg once daily. Hydrochlorothiazide Side effects Side effects include Low blood pressure, Nausea Weakness, Light sensitivity (rash caused by sunlight), Impotence, and Abdominal pain. More serious side effects include pancreatitis, jaundice, electrolyte disturbances, and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).

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Meloxicam: Uses, Side effects, Dosage

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Meloxicam works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.Other members of this class include Ibuprofen (Motrin) Indomethacin (Indocin) Nabumetone(Relafen) Mechanism Of action: Anti-inflammatory effects of meloxicam are believed to be due to inhibition of prostaglandin synthetase (cylooxygenase), leading to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. As prostaglandins sensitize pain receptors, inhibition of their synthesis may be associated with the analgesic and antipyretic effects of meloxicam. Uses : Meloxicam decreases inflammation and pain. It’s approved to treat: Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis Juvenile arthritis in people aged 2 years or older Pregnancy There have been no human studies of the effects of meloxicam during pregnancy, so it is hard to know just how safe it is, but animal studies have shown that at the doses prescribed the medication shouldn’t cause any fetal harm for the first two trimesters. The medication should stop being used in the third trimester however, as it can cause a delayed, lengthy labour. In addition it can cross the placenta and cause abnormal development of the fetal circulation, which can result in a condition called pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. Meloxicam Side effects: Common side effects  include: Nausea, Diarrhea Drowsiness, Nervousness Stomach upset, Bloating, Headache Gas, Dizziness, Runny or stuffy nose, Skin rash, Sore throat. Less common but serious side effects of Meloxicam occur including: Black, bloody, or tarry stools; Chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance; Swelling or rapid weight gain, Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. Dosage: Osteoarthritis 7.5-15 mg Orally Once Day; Not to exceed 15 mg/day Rheumatoid Arthritis 7.5-15 mg Orally Once Day; Not to exceed 15 mg/day Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis Child dosage (ages 2-17 years) The initial dose is usually 0.125 milligram per kilogram of body weight taken once per day. The maximum dose is 7.5 milligrams per day.  

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Naproxen: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage etc

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is widely used to treat a variety of painful conditions, including arthritis, menstrual cramps, headache, and fever. It is available over-the-counter or by prescription, depending on the strength and dosage form. Naproxen has been used in the United States since 1980. It is available generically and under many brand names. Naproxen was approved by the FDA in December 1991. In this article, we will provide an overview of naproxen, including its uses, side effects, precautions, mechanism, dosage, and frequently asked questions. Uses of Naproxen Naproxen is commonly used to treat the following conditions: Arthritis – Naproxen can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with various types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Menstrual cramps – Naproxen is effective in reducing menstrual pain and cramps. Headache – Naproxen is used to treat migraine headaches, tension headaches, and other types of headaches. Fever – Naproxen can be used to lower fever. Other pain – Naproxen is also used to treat other types of pain, such as back pain, toothache, and musculoskeletal pain. Mechanism of Naproxen Naproxen works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen blocks the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. By reducing the production of prostaglandins, naproxen can help reduce inflammation, pain, and fever. These enzymes help to make other chemicals in the body, called prostaglandins, Blocking of these enzymes resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins. These enzymes (COX) are responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. As a Result Of low concentration of these enzymes inflammation, pain and fever are reduced. Dosage of Naproxen The dosage of naproxen depends on the condition being treated, the strength of the medication, and the age and weight of the patient. The recommended dose for adults with mild to moderate pain is 250-500 mg twice daily. For arthritis, the recommended dose is 250-500 mg twice daily, up to a maximum of 1,500 mg per day. Children should not take naproxen unless directed by a doctor. Dose for Osteoarthritis Controlled Release: 750 mg to 1000 mg orally once a day Delayed Release: 375 mg to 500 mg orally twice a day Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: 250 mg to 500 mg (naproxen) or 275 mg to 550 mg (naproxen sodium) orally twice a day Dysmenorrhea Initial dose of 500 mg Orally, then 250 mg PO  after every 6-8hr or 500 mg Orally After every  12hr , not to exceed 1250 mg/day on the first day; subsequent doses should not exceed 1000 mg/day naproxen base In Acute Gout Initial Dose of 750 mg Orally, followed by 250 mg After every 8hr until attack subsides Extended release: 1000-1500 mg  Once A Day, followed by 1000 mg  Once A Day until attack subsides Side Effects of Naproxen Like all medications, naproxen can cause side effects. Common side effects of naproxen include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea or constipation Headache Dizziness or lightheadedness Stomach pain or cramps Heartburn or indigestion Bloating or gas Rash or itching More serious side effects may occur, such as: Chest pain Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat Severe skin rash or blisters Unusual bleeding or bruising Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) Kidney problems If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Precautions for Naproxen Before taking naproxen, inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: Allergies to aspirin or other NSAIDs Heart disease or high blood pressure Liver or kidney disease Asthma or other breathing problems Stomach ulcers or bleeding Pregnancy or breastfeeding Naproxen may interact with other medications or supplements, so inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements. Read below. Naproxen and Pregnancy Naproxen may cause harm to a developing fetus, and should not be used in the later stages of pregnancy. There’s some evidence that it can cause problems for developing babies and increase the risk for maternal bleeding during delivery. Interactions It can interact with the following drugs: Aspirin Certain blood pressure medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors Certain drugs to treat cholesterol such as cholestyramine Diuretic also called water pills Methotrexate, which is used for rheumatoid arthritis and some kinds of cancer The bipolar disorder drug lithium Blood thinners such as warfarin Certain drugs for depression such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) Certain antacid drugs such as h2 blockers and sucralfate Frequently Asked Questions About Naproxen Can I take naproxen with other pain relievers? A: It is not recommended to take naproxen with other pain relievers, such as aspirin or acetaminophen, without consulting your doctor first. Combining multiple pain relievers can increase the risk of side effects and complications. Can I drink alcohol while taking naproxen? A: Drinking alcohol while taking naproxen can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other complications. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking naproxen. Can naproxen be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding? A: Naproxen should not be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby. It should also be avoided during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk and harm the nursing baby. Can naproxen cause addiction or dependence? A: Naproxen is not addictive and does not cause dependence. However, it should be taken as directed by your doctor and should not be taken for a prolonged period without medical supervision. How long does it take for naproxen to start working? A: Naproxen typically takes 30-60 minutes to start working and can provide relief for up to 12 hours. Conclusion Naproxen is a commonly used NSAID that can effectively treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation and pain. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects and should be taken as directed by your doctor. If you

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