Naproxen sodium for OB/GYN use, with special reference to pain states: a review

Abstract

The effectiveness of naproxen sodium and its parent compound, naproxen, has been assessed in the treatment of a variety of obstetric and gynecologic problems, particularly pain states. This article summarizes the literature on the efficacy of the naproxen compounds in treatment of the following conditions: primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, insertion of a contraceptive intrauterine device, suction curettage, postpartum pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, gynecologic surgery, menorrhagia, premature labor and menopause. The data from the studies compiled demonstrate the usefulness of naproxen sodium or naproxen as an effective analgesic in treating pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.

PIP: Naproxen sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that blocks prostaglandin synthesis, has been shown to be effective for relief of mild to moderate pain. This article summarizes the literature on the efficacy of the naproxen compounds in the treatment of the following conditions: primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, IUD insertion, suction curettage, postpartum pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, gynecologic surgery, menorrhagia, premature labor, and menopause. Since naproxen does not affect the reproductive cycle, it appears to be ideal for obstetrics-gynecology use. Pediatricians, family practitioners, internists, surgeons, and geriatric specialists will also encounter patients requiring relief from pain caused by gynecologic pathology. The combined therapeutic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics for infections of the female reproductive tract appears indicated. The literature has established therapeutic success with naproxen and naproxen sodium as compared to a placebo in the treatment of dysmenorrhea and pain associated with IUD insertion, suction curettage, and postpartum conditions; joint pain in menopausal women; pain and inflammation associated with pelvic infections; and gynecologic surgery.