Is Naproxen a Narcotic? Naproxen High Explained (IP 190)

Naproxen
Drug Abuse
Drug Addiction

Who would have thought that a simple NSAID could cause severe long-term damage? Some experts have noted the overuse of NSAIDs in the US and at present, it has alarmed people as a growing number is starting to get addicted to this medication.

If you suspect a loved one to show symptoms of Naproxen addiction, Transcend Recovery Community can help you. Our lead experts on drug addiction and OTC medications are here to explain Naproxen and its potential to become a tool for addiction. Read on to find out more.

What is Naproxen (IP 190 500 pill)?

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID. It's used to treat mild to moderate pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by the following:

  • arthritis
  • rheumatoid arthritis,
  • juvenile arthritis
  • osteoarthritis,
  • gouty arthritis
  • ankylosing spondylitis
  • menstrual cramps,
  • and other joint and muscle problems.

It comes in brand names:

  • Aleve (also known as Naprosyn),
  • Anaprox DS,
  • Arthritis Pain Formula,
  • Midol Extended Relief Caplets
  • and Motrin IB.

Naproxen works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation (redness and swelling). It also blocks prostaglandins that cause fever and pain. However, this over-the-counter drug along with other NSAIDs is used by some people apart from their intended purpose.

Is Naproxen a Narcotic?

a man who is addicted to naproxen is holding his head while sitting on a bench and is depressed

While there have been arguments made about whether Naproxen is a narcotic, it cannot be considered a narcotic drug. Narcotics are used for pain relief and have a high abuse potential, meaning they can be easily misused or abused. Naproxen has no abuse potential and is used to treat pain from arthritis and other conditions.

To fully understand what narcotics are, let's look at some of their qualities:

  • The drug tends to induce sleep or stupor.
  • The drug is habit-forming, meaning that it causes physical and psychological dependence.
  • The drug has an addiction liability, meaning that it is likely to cause compulsive behavior in users.

Side Effects of Naproxen

Here are the many side effects of Naproxen. Let's first start with the most common side effects found with Naproxen use.

  • Gastrointestinal:
  • stomach pain
  • diarrhea
  • excessive gas
  • heartburn
  • constipation
  • nausea
  • Central nervous system effects:
  • headaches
  • dizziness
  • Dermatological effects:
  • rash
  • itching
  • swelling of the face, throat, or tongue

While these may seem harmless, especially if experienced mildly, there are also severe side effects that you have to keep in mind. These include:

Cardiovascular

  • hypertension
  • tachycardia
  • palpitations
  • syncope
  • angina pectoris
  • myocardial infarction (MI)
  • arrhythmias

Gastrointestinal

  • anorexia
  • peptic ulcer disease (PUD)
  • perforation of the stomach or intestine

Hepatic

  • hepatitis
  • jaundice

Genitourinary system

  • nephrotic syndrome

Although this anti-inflammatory drug can provide day relief to patients or individuals suffering from chronic pain, it is best to consult with your doctor to ensure that the prescription medication may not interfere with your physical and mental abilities.

Can You Get High on Naproxen

The short answer is no, you cannot get high from taking naproxen. But some potential side effects may lead you to believe otherwise. People taking Naproxen other than its intended purpose do so for the euphoric effect that these types of drugs or medications give to their bodies.

Here are some of the ways a medication works to produce a sense of "high:"

  • The pill-popping method - In the pill-popping method, a drug abuser will drink some liquid, then quickly wash it down with a large amount of water/another liquid.
  • The powdering method - The powdering method is a way that drug abusers use to inhale drugs, especially cocaine. It gives users a more intense high compared to smoking or injection.
  • The dissolving method - The "dissolving" method is a form of drug abuse that involves dissolving a drug in water and ingesting it. This method is typically used to abuse prescription drugs such as painkillers or to get high from illegal drugs such as heroin.
  • The heating method - The term "heating" refers to the method of heating a drug and inhaling it through a straw or some other apparatus that can cause lung damage and lead to respiratory failure.

It is important for people taking Naproxen to get high to identify when their condition starts to worsen. As they succumb deeper into addiction, their physical and mental abilities will be hugely impacted by this medication. Their symptoms may range from central nervous system effects like constant headaches to dangerously high blood pressure if left untreated.

When receiving treatment for a particular medication addiction, suffering individuals may improve their condition by incorporating sober living into their rehab program.

The beauty of these recovery residences is that they can provide a safe space, particularly for gender-specific homes such as women's and men's sober living.

Naproxen Abuse

Naproxen abuse occurs as the drug is convenient to obtain. Its effects are also similar to other opiates, producing a euphoric and hallucinogenic effect. Additionally, some people have grown accustomed to its effects and are perhaps looking for a less-addictive alternative.

Most people who are at risk from abuse of over-the-counter medications like Naproxen are young adults. That's why guidance and support from friends and family alongside counseling will work wonders for people suffering from addiction.

Can Transcend Recovery Community Assist with Naproxen Addiction?

Transcend provides the utmost care and assistive recovery services for people with Naproxen addiction. For people who prefer to have deluxe conveniences similar to a high-end apartment or hotel, luxury sober living options can help them get better with more comfort.

With lifestyle changes, counseling and guidance, and support from the family, a doctor, and other specialists, anyone can be sober for good. Contact us to find out more about the first steps to help people change their life for good.

Transcend Recovery Community

Transcend Recovery Community family of sober living homes provides a safe place for those undergoing mental health and addiction treatment to live with like-minded peers. Our community-based approach to sober living (similarly to a halfway house) facilitates an open and welcoming environment, where members, staff and team can provide support and encouragement on the path to a sober and healthy life. Transcend's Los Angeles sober living homes are located in some of the most iconic areas of the city, filled with luxurious and upscale amenities, providing plenty to do for those in our transitional housing community.

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