Before figuring out the question, "Is Naproxen a narcotic?" Here's some shocking news: NSAIDs are the most prescribed medications worldwide with over 70 million in the United States alone. With that staggering amount of usage alone, many people are subject to NSAID drug dependence as a form of abuse.
Transcend Recovery Community is here to help enlighten you with all the information you need to know about Naproxen and what treatment can be done to get better from addiction. Learn more below.
What is Naproxen?
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation. It is also known as Anaprox, Naprosyn, and Aleve among other brand names. Naproxen can be purchased over the counter at most pharmacies and is prescribed for the treatment and alleviation of pain.
Side Effects of Naproxen
You may experience some of these common side effects when taking Naproxen.
Some of these side effects are more likely to occur than others. If any of them happen, it is essential to tell your doctor or pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms while taking Naproxen, including:
- asthma-like symptoms (difficulty breathing, wheezing)
- skin rashes
- headaches
- itching or hives
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat
- sudden weakness or numbness in your arm or leg
- severe stomach pain
- high blood pressure
Naproxen works differently per person and may also cause severe side effects to other people. Some of these may manifest as the following:
- may cause intestinal ulcers and bleeding
- blood clots
- anemia
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- stroke
- cardiovascular diseases
It is not advised to take alcohol while on Naproxen. As the medication belongs to a class of pain relievers known as NSAIDs, it may increase your risk of bleeding.
Uses for Naproxen
As earlier mentioned, Naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), relieves symptoms of numerous health conditions and diseases. Some of them may include the following:
- Osteoarthritis
- juvenile arthritis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- ankylosing spondylitis
- can treat mild to moderate pain
- acute gout
- bursitis
- tendinitis
- menstrual cramps
Is Naproxen a Narcotic?
No. Naproxen can’t be classified as a narcotic drug because it is not an opiate. An opiate is a substance derived from the opium poppy plant that binds to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, causing pain relief and relaxation.
There is some debate about whether Naproxen is a narcotic drug or not. Many people believe that it is, but this is not the case. Naproxen does not have the same properties as other narcotic drugs, and there are several reasons why it should not be considered one.
For individuals suffering from drug dependence while taking Naproxen, it is wise to seek outpatient treatment while working directly with a mental health mentor during and post-rehabilitation. It will ensure that their needs are taken care of and that their physical and mental abilities will always be in check to avoid any negative central nervous system effects on individuals.
Can Naproxen Get Me High?
The answer is yes. While this isn't common, it does happen sometimes. Many people who take these medications for a long time may experience some degree of euphoric effect or altered mental state. This is because NSAID drugs are designed to reduce inflammation in the body by blocking prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins are a type of hormone secreted by your body that controls inflammation and pain in your joints. The problem is that some people have been known to become addicted to the euphoric feeling induced by NSAIDs—and it's not just because they want to escape their physical pain anymore.
As Naproxen works by altering the chemical reactions in your body, the truth is this may bring devastating effects if improper Naproxen use is continued. Day relief from taking other NSAIDs or Naproxen can't solve the ongoing issues of someone dependent or addicted to it.
Oftentimes, positive lifestyle changes that may include rehabilitation and sober living could help someone who has succumbed to this over-the-counter prescription drug misuse.
How Does The Central Nervous System React to Naproxen
The central nervous system reacts to Naproxen by releasing a chemical called prostaglandin E2. This chemical plays an important role in inflammation because it helps the body release histamine and other chemicals that help fight off injury or illness.
Prostaglandin E2 also causes blood vessels to expand, which increases blood flow. This means that Naproxen can reduce swelling and pain by bringing more blood to the area where you've been injured.
Is Naproxen Addiction Real?
Yes, it is entirely possible to form an addiction to Naproxen.
People who take Naproxen for longer than a few weeks may be more likely to develop an addiction to it. Those who have a high risk for addiction include people with a history of substance abuse and those who are depressed or have anxiety disorders.
When this condition worsens, it may gravely impact a person's physical and mental abilities. Depending on the severity of their addiction, they may need to undergo rigorous outpatient drug rehab treatment.
Once rehabilitation is finished, individuals may also find out what to expect post-rehab to help them better adjust to their new life.
Can Transcend Recovery Community Assist with Naproxen and Other Opioid Addiction?
Transcend Recovery Community can certainly help individuals through recovery assistance services with Naproxen and other forms of addiction from opioid medications. Our team of experts is committed to helping people get better through various programs that would assure them about a life of long-term sobriety.
You may contact us to find out more about how we can help you with your rehabilitation journey today.
