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What Causes Stomach Discomfort After Using Naproxen?
Question: I have just started using naproxen and have noticed that shortly after taking it I am suffering from stomach discomfort including having to go to the toilet for bowel movement I have only been on this medication for 3 days 500mg twice a day is this usual
Brief Answer:
Side-effect of naproxen.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and this type of drug is effective in treating the pain and inflammation of arthritis. One of the side-effects is irritation of the stomach lining which can cause the type of discomfort you are suffering. Sometimes there may be a small amount of bleeding of the stomach lining and this may lead to increased bowel movement.
I suggest you speak to your doctor about starting a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). This drug reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach and thereby reduces the potential for non-steroids to cause irritation. Commonly used drugs are lansoprazole and omeprazole. In the meantime, try an over-the-counter antacid from your pharmacy. Also, you could consider adding paracetamol to your pain-killer regimen and thereby potentially reduce the amount of naproxen you need. Alcohol and smoking increase the possibility of naproxen causing these problems so a lifestyle adjustment could help if appropriate.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA
Side-effect of naproxen.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for using Healthcare Magic.
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and this type of drug is effective in treating the pain and inflammation of arthritis. One of the side-effects is irritation of the stomach lining which can cause the type of discomfort you are suffering. Sometimes there may be a small amount of bleeding of the stomach lining and this may lead to increased bowel movement.
I suggest you speak to your doctor about starting a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). This drug reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach and thereby reduces the potential for non-steroids to cause irritation. Commonly used drugs are lansoprazole and omeprazole. In the meantime, try an over-the-counter antacid from your pharmacy. Also, you could consider adding paracetamol to your pain-killer regimen and thereby potentially reduce the amount of naproxen you need. Alcohol and smoking increase the possibility of naproxen causing these problems so a lifestyle adjustment could help if appropriate.
I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Dr K A Pottinger,
MBChB FRCA
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Dr. Kerry Pottinger
Pain Medicine & Palliative Care Specialist
Practicing since :1983
Answered : 1337 Questions
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