Naproxen sodium overdose

Definition

Naproxen sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve mild to moderate aches and pains. Naproxen sodium overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or a local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient

Naproxen

Where Found

Naproxen sodium is sold under a variety of different brand names, including:

• Aleve
• Anaprox
• Anaprox DS
• Naprelan
• Naprosyn

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

Symptoms

• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Blurred vision
• Gastrointestinal system
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain (Possible bleeding in the stomach and intestines)
  • Vomiting
• Heart and blood vessels
  • Circulatory failure
• Lungs
  • Slow, labored breathing
  • Wheezing
• Nervous system
  • Agitation
  • Coma
  • Confusion
  • Convulsions
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache - severe
  • Incoherence (not understandable)
  • Movement problems
  • Unsteadiness
• Skin
  • Rash

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed
• If a doctor prescribed the medicine for the person

However, DO NOT delay calling for help if this information is not immediately available.

Poison Control

In the United States, call 1-800-222-1222 to speak with a local position control center. This hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Tube through the mouth or nose into the stomach to wash out the stomach (gastric lavage)

Outlook (Prognosis)

Recovery is likely.

References

Goldfrank LR, ed. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 8th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2006.

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