Synflex Tablet 550mg

About Synflex Tablet 550mg

Synflex Tablet Uses

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Acute gout attacks
• Menstrual cramps (primary dysmenorrhea)
• Muscle aches and backache
• Headaches and toothache
• Post-operative pain and fever

Drug Class

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

How Does Synflex Work?

Synflex contains Naproxen Sodium, which blocks the cyclooxygenase enzymes COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes convert arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain, swelling, and fever. By blocking both COX enzymes, Naproxen Sodium reduces prostaglandin production in the body, which results in the following:

• Pain relief at the site of inflammation
• Reduced swelling in joints and soft tissues
• Lower body temperature when fever is present
• Longer-lasting relief compared to ibuprofen, because Naproxen Sodium has a 12-hour half-life

When Not to Use Synflex

Do not take Synflex if any of the following apply to you:

• You are allergic to Naproxen Sodium, aspirin, or any other NSAID
• You have had a previous heart attack or stroke
• You are in the third trimester of pregnancy
• You have active stomach or duodenal ulcers
• You have severe kidney or liver disease
• You have uncontrolled heart failure
• You are about to have or have recently had heart bypass surgery
• You have a known bleeding disorder or are on anticoagulant therapy without medical supervision

Packaging and Quantity

• 1 pack contains 3 strips
• 1 strip contains 10 tablets
• 30 tablets per pack

Synflex Tablet 550mg formula

• Naproxen Sodium

Available forms

• Tablets

How to use Synflex Tablet 550mg?

• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Always take with food or milk to protect your stomach
• Do not crush or chew the tablet
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible
• If your stomach hurts or you feel nauseous after taking Synflex, inform your doctor immediately
• Do not change the frequency or dosage without consulting your doctor
• If your condition does not improve within 1 to 2 days, consult your doctor
• Take 550mg every 12 hours with food, not exceeding 1,375mg on the first day and 1,100mg per day thereafter

Drug Interactions

Synflex can interact with other medications. Always tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement, or herbal product you are currently taking. Key interactions to be aware of include:

• ACE inhibitors such as captopril, enalapril, and fosinopril: Synflex can reduce the effectiveness of these blood pressure medicines
• Angiotensin receptor blockers such as losartan and valsartan: combining these with Synflex increases the risk of kidney damage
• Blood thinners and anticoagulants such as warfarin, clopidogrel, and enoxaparin: this combination significantly raises the risk of bleeding
• Aspirin: avoid combining with Synflex as it increases GI bleeding risk without providing extra pain relief
• Corticosteroids such as prednisolone: taking these together significantly raises the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding
• Lithium: Naproxen raises lithium blood levels, which can increase the risk of lithium toxicity
• Diuretics such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide: Synflex may reduce how well these medicines work
• Other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and diclofenac: never take two NSAIDs at the same time
• Potassium supplements: combining with Synflex may cause dangerously high potassium levels in the blood
• Anticholinergic drugs such as benztropine and trihexyphenidyl: may slow gut activity when taken with Synflex

Risks and warnings

You should be aware of the following risks before using Synflex:

1. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Do not take Synflex in the third trimester of pregnancy as it can cause premature closure of the baby's ductus arteriosus, which is a blood vessel in the heart
• Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only under direct doctor supervision
• Naproxen passes into breast milk in small amounts, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine

2. Heart Disease and Stroke Risk

• NSAIDs including Synflex can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke
• This risk is higher with long-term use and in patients who already have heart disease
• People with a history of heart attacks, strokes, or high blood pressure should use Synflex with caution and only under strict medical supervision

3. Gastric Ulcers and GI Bleeding

• Synflex suppresses prostaglandins that protect the stomach lining, which increases the risk of ulcers
• Warning signs of GI bleeding include black tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain
• Always take Synflex with food to reduce gastric irritation
• Your doctor may prescribe a gastroprotective medicine such as omeprazole to be taken alongside Synflex

4. High Blood Pressure

• Naproxen Sodium causes the body to retain water and sodium, which can raise blood pressure
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly if you are taking antihypertensive medication alongside Synflex
• Synflex may also reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medicines

5. Kidney Disease

• Long-term use of Synflex can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and impair kidney function over time
• People with existing kidney disease should use the lowest effective dose and have their kidney function monitored regularly
• Drink plenty of water while taking Synflex

6. Liver Disease

• The liver is responsible for metabolizing Naproxen Sodium, and impaired liver function can cause the drug to accumulate in the body
• Patients with liver disease should use Synflex with caution and have their liver function tested regularly

7. Asthma

• Synflex can trigger or worsen asthma attacks, particularly in people with aspirin-sensitive asthma
• If you experience wheezing or breathlessness after taking Synflex, stop the medication immediately and consult your doctor

8. Edema and Fluid Retention

• Synflex can cause fluid to build up in the body, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
• People with congestive heart failure are at higher risk and should use Synflex with extra caution

9. Bleeding Disorders and Anticoagulants

• Synflex slows down the process that helps blood clot, so combining it with blood thinners significantly increases bleeding risk
• Avoid Synflex if you have hemophilia or any clotting disorder unless a doctor has specifically advised it

10. Allergic Reactions

• Mild allergic reactions can cause skin rash, itching, hives, or wheezing
• A severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat. This requires immediate emergency care
• Do not use Synflex if you have previously had an allergic reaction to any NSAID

Precautions

Follow these precautions to use Synflex safely:

• Always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time
• Never take two NSAIDs at the same time
• Avoid alcohol while taking Synflex as it raises the risk of stomach bleeding
• Tell your doctor about all your current medications, including herbal supplements and vitamins
• If you are over 65 years old, use Synflex with extra caution as the risk of side effects is higher in older adults
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if Synflex makes you drowsy or dizzy
• If pain or inflammation does not improve within 7 days, consult your doctor rather than increasing the dose
• Do not self-medicate for more than 5 days for pain or 3 days for fever without seeking medical advice

Synflex Tablet Side Effects

Not everyone who takes Synflex will experience side effects. However, the following have been reported:

Common Side Effects:

• Abdominal pain or stomach discomfort
• Acid reflux or heartburn
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Headache or dizziness
• Mild swelling in the ankles or feet due to fluid retention

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention Immediately):

• Vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds, which can be a sign of internal bleeding
• Black or tarry stools, which is another sign of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Blood visible in the stool
• Chest pain or shortness of breath, which may indicate a heart event
• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, which may indicate a stroke
• Severe skin reaction including blistering, peeling, or rash
• Signs of kidney damage such as significantly reduced urination or unusual swelling
• Severe allergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature, ideally below 25°C
• Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture
• Store in the original packaging to protect from humidity
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a kitchen sink