EC-NAPROSYN

Drug Name: EC-NAPROSYN

EC-NAPROSYN DESCRIPTION:
NAPROXEN - ORAL TABLET ENTERIC COATED (nah-PROX-en)

COMMON EC-NAPROSYN BRAND NAME(S):
EC-Naprosyn

EC-NAPROSYN SIDE EFFECTS:
Inform your doctor if you develop persistent stomach pain, presence of black or bloody stools, skin rash, itching, edema (swelling of the feet or hands), change in urine color, vision changes or fever while taking EC-NAPROSYN. May cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. May rarely cause ringing in the ears and or loss of hearing. Infrequently, EC-NAPROSYN may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE EC-NAPROSYN:
EC-NAPROSYN: EC-NAPROSYN may be taken with or without food. It should not be taken with an antacid or other medication that decreases stomach acid. Take EC-NAPROSYN with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking EC-NAPROSYN. Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or chew.

EC-NAPROSYN USES:
Naproxen belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). It relieves pain and reduces swelling. It is used for arthritis and other painful conditions.

EC-NAPROSYN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, any allergies (especially drug allergies). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of any nonprescription medication you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Caution is advised when EC-NAPROSYN is used in the elderly. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using EC-NAPROSYN. Use of EC-NAPROSYN in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. EC-NAPROSYN is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

EC-NAPROSYN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), other arthritis medication (including aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen), methotrexate, "water pills" (diuretics), lithium, ulcer medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

EC-NAPROSYN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe stomach pain, coffee ground-like vomit, dark stool, ringing in the ears, change in amount of urine, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, muscle weakness, slow or shallow breathing, confusion, severe headache or loss of consciousness.

EC-NAPROSYN NOTES:
In arthritis, it may take up to two weeks before the full effects of EC-NAPROSYN are noted. For best results this should be taken regularly, as directed by your doctor. Because these are delayed-released tablets, EC-NAPROSYN is not intended to be used for conditions that require immediate pain relief such as acute gout, menstrual pain, tendonitis or bursitis. A shorter-acting dosage form should be used for these conditions. Your doctor may monitor kidney, liver and blood cell tests periodically.

MISSED EC-NAPROSYN DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

EC-NAPROSYN STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.