Q. I am taking naproxen for pain in my lower back, hands and knees. It seems to do the trick for the pain but I am having lots of flatulence. There is probably no connection but I would like to know for sure if the naproxen is causing it. Also, are there any other complications of naproxen I should be aware of?
A. Naproxen (available as Aleve over the counter and as Anaprox, Naprelan or Naprosyn by prescription) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Like ibuprofen and similar pain relievers, naproxen can cause flatulence. A surprising number of medications can contribute to gassiness.
NSAIDs like naproxen can cause digestive distress including ulcers, high blood pressure, fluid retention, dizziness, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, rashes and kidney damage. You may want to consider some natural approaches to easing pain and inflammation such as boswellia, turmeric or fish oil.
You can find out more about such approaches as well as a number of causes and treatments for flatulence in Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy. It is available from your local library or bookseller or online at this website.
