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Naproxen sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is associated with several critical safety warnings. It is important to be aware of these potential risks and precautions to ensure safe use:

• Heart Attack and Stroke Risk: Naproxen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly if used for prolonged periods. The risk is higher in older adults and those with existing heart conditions or risk factors such as smoking or high blood pressure. Avoid using naproxen before or after heart surgery like coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).

• Stomach and Intestinal Bleeding: This medication can cause serious bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can occur without warning at any time. Older adults and individuals with a history of stomach issues are at greater risk. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, black or tarry stools, or vomit resembling coffee grounds.

• High Blood Pressure and Heart Failure: Naproxen can lead to fluid retention, raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart failure. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart problems or are on blood pressure medication.

• Kidney Damage: The risk of kidney problems is higher in older adults, those with pre-existing kidney issues, diabetes, or those on medications affecting the kidneys. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be required by your healthcare provider.

• Liver Problems: Though rare, naproxen can cause severe liver damage. Be alert for signs like abdominal swelling, jaundice, dark urine, or unexplained nausea and vomiting.

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Allergies to naproxen, including life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis, are possible. Avoid use if you have known allergies to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Seek immediate help if you experience symptoms like hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Naproxen can harm an unborn baby, especially in the second half of pregnancy, and may cause complications. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Contraindications: Do not use naproxen if you have a history of asthma, hives, or allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or if you are undergoing or have recently undergone heart surgery.

In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Always discuss with your healthcare provider the benefits and risks of taking naproxen to ensure it is appropriate for you.

When taking this medication, some individuals may experience common side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. These are typically mild, but if they persist or worsen, it's important to inform your healthcare provider. Additionally, the medication may cause an increase in blood pressure, so regular monitoring is recommended.

On rare occasions, more serious side effects can occur. These may include easy bruising or bleeding, difficulty swallowing, changes in hearing, mood alterations, vision changes, and symptoms indicative of kidney problems, such as changes in urine output. Heart-related issues like swelling in the ankles or feet, unusual fatigue, or sudden weight gain might also be observed and should be reported immediately.

Liver issues, although uncommon, can be severe. Symptoms such as persistent nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine warrant urgent medical attention. Allergic reactions are rare but serious, with symptoms including fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing requiring immediate medical care.

Some users may also experience symptoms related to stomach bleeding, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney and liver problems, or severe skin reactions. Symptoms such as vomiting blood, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe headache, or red, blistering skin necessitate urgent medical evaluation. While these severe side effects are rare, awareness and prompt communication with a healthcare provider are essential if they occur.

Some medications that may interact with this drug include: Aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (e.g., Captopril, Lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., Losartan, Valsartan), Cidofovir, corticosteroids (such as Prednisone), Lithium, and diuretics like Furosemide. Using this medication with others that can also increase bleeding risk, such as anti-platelet drugs like Clopidogrel and anticoagulants like Dabigatran, Enoxaparin, or Warfarin, may raise the chance of bleeding.

Be vigilant with both prescription and over-the-counter medicines, as many contain pain relievers/fever reducers like Aspirin or NSAIDs (e.g., Celecoxib, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac), which are similar to Naproxen and could heighten side effects when combined. If directed by your doctor to use low-dose aspirin (81-162 mg daily) for heart attack or stroke prevention, continue its use unless advised otherwise, as daily naproxen may reduce aspirin's effectiveness for heart protection. Discuss with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits, and explore alternative options for managing pain or fever.

Additionally, this medication might affect certain laboratory tests, potentially leading to inaccurate results. Inform lab staff and all healthcare providers of your naproxen use.