Naproxen, also known better as Aleve, is an over the counter NSAID. It is used most commonly for disorders of mild to moderate pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Since several chronic health conditions require continued use of Naproxen as an analgesic, its continued use could cause severe kidney damage.
Naproxen can affect the kidneys by causing acute renal failure, as well as cystitis and hematuria.
Naproxen is absorbed from the GI tract, and excreted through the urine.
Nursing considerations: we need to keep in mind other drugs, such as antibiotics or other pain killers, that are nephrotoxic as well while administering Naproxen. In renal patients, we must be extremely cautious of its use, due to the kidneys extra time needed to process the drug. Naproxen can also cause an increase BUN, serum creatinine, and serum K due in decreased kidney function. Adequate hydration is recommended for patients taking Naproxen with impaired renal function.
