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Naproxen sodium overdose

 

Naproxen sodium is a nonsteroidal 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 overdose. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. If you or someone you are with overdoses, call your local emergency number (such as 911), or your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.

Poisonous Ingredient

Naproxen

Where Found

 

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

  • Aleve
  • Anaprox
  • Anaprox DS
  • Naprelan
  • Naprosyn

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

 

Symptoms

 

Symptoms of naproxen sodium overdose include:

  • Agitation
  • Blurred vision
  • Coma
  • Confusion
  • Convulsions (seizures)
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache - severe
  • Heartburn
  • Incoherence (the person is not understandable)
  • Movement problems
  • Nausea
  • Rash
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Slow, labored breathing
  • Stomach pain (possible bleeding in the stomach and intestines)
  • Unsteadiness
  • Vomiting
  • Wheezing

 

Before Calling Emergency

 

Determine the following information:

  • Person'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

 

Your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. 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. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

 

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

  • Activated charcoal
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Fluids through a vein (IV)
  • Laxatives
  • Medicines to treat symptoms

In rare, serious cases, more treatments may be needed. Most people will be discharged from the emergency department after being observed for a period of time.

 

Outlook (Prognosis)

 

Recovery is likely.

 

 

Open References

References

Goldfrank LR, ed. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies . 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2011.

Seger DL, Murray L. Aspirin and nonsteroidal agents. In: Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, et al, eds. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 149.

 

        A Closer Look

         

          Talking to your MD

           

            Self Care

             

              Tests for Naproxen sodium overdose

               
                 

                Review Date: 1/16/2015

                Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

                The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

                 
                 
                 

                 

                 

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