Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help manage various categories of pains. Discomforts these drugs can manage include headache / migraine, tooth aches, cramping of muscles, joint pains triggered by autoimmune problems such as arthritis. NSAIDs are also administered for managing signs of infections like fever (sudden rise in temperature), pains experienced due to common cold and / or flu. In this light, what are the key differences between NSAIDs ibuprofen and naproxen? It is a vial thing to understand these 2 drugs before starting your treatment plan.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used widely for inhibiting the actions of enzymes such as COX-1 and COX-2. Among these 2 enzymes, COX-1 is associated with inner walls of your gastric system. COX-2 manages swelling / inflammation related signals when you experience bodily pains. Consumption of NSAIDs is known to relieve pains as well as discomforts of various kinds.
What is naproxen?
Naproxen is an NSAID. It is regarded as a long-acting drug especially, when compared to other nonselective versions of NSAIDs. Due to its long-acting properties, naproxen may trigger a few severe side effects, mostly in the gastric channel and surrounding regions.
What is ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen also an NSAID which is taken for the treatment of fever and many types of pains. The key ingredients of this med can control the production of enzymes that make prostaglandins. It is important to remember that prostaglandins are natural means by which your system expedites healing (through internal swelling). This drug stops the responses and arrests swelling / inflammation. Ibuprofen is used for conditions like migraines, painful joints, back-pain, muscular conditions such as pains / aches, etc.
What are the differences between these two meds?
The key difference rests in the time taken to act; ibuprofen has a short-action time while naproxen is a long-action NSAID. Due to the short acting nature, ibuprofen is used for treating sharp and acute pains. It is also widely used among children as well as teens. On the other hand, naproxen – due to its long-acting properties – is well-suited for treating chronic pains and discomforts.
On the side effects front, naproxen is more likely to cause stomach problems such as internal bleeding, ulcers and bruising. Doctors who prescribe long-acting drugs mostly adhere to a low level of dosage strength to avoid gastric discomforts.
What are the safety precautions to be followed while you are taking NSAIDs?
It is unsafe to take more than one form of NSAIDs as part of your medication plan. Long-acting NSAIDs are likely to trigger risks of gastric problems such as ulcers or internal bruising. It is hence not recommended to consume NSAIDs – either ibuprofen or naproxen – for a lengthy time span.
Risks of kidney related conditions and / or heart problems are more likely among aged people. In this light, it becomes important to talk to treating doctor about the meds you are currently consuming. You are advised to compile a list of all drugs you are consuming. Ensure to include over the counter (OTC) drugs, prescription meds, supplements of vitamins, minerals or proteins, herbal aids and dietary supplements in this list.
Those who experience adverse effects or unwanted reactions like discharge of watery stools, vomiting or nausea, flatulence, GERD or acid reflux are recommended to talk to their treating physician without delay. If such signs persist, call 911 without any further delay or dial for help from helpdesk of food and drug administration (FDA). Residents of Canadian provinces must seek help from Health Canada or rush to a poison control center nearer home.
Education: Master’s in Nursing (MSN) from Johns Hopkins University. Experience: 7 years writing for online health portals and nursing journals, specializing in patient education and chronic illness management.
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