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Arthrotec vs. Naprosyn

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Arthrotec (diclofenac/misoprostol) and Naprosyn (naproxen) are both medications used to treat pain and inflammation, but they have some notable differences. Arthrotec is a combination of two drugs: diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and misoprostol, a prostaglandin that protects the stomach from ulcers caused by NSAIDs. Naprosyn, on the other hand, is a single NSAID that works by blocking proteins that cause inflammation and pain. Arthrotec is specifically designed to help treat arthritis in people at high risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers. Naprosyn is used for a broader range of conditions, including arthritis, gout, and menstrual cramps. Arthrotec must be taken multiple times a day, while Naprosyn is usually taken 2 to 3 times per day. Both medications can cause stomach pain, nausea and diarrhea, but Arthrotec is particularly dangerous for people who are pregnant, while Naprosyn should be avoided after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Arthrotec

(diclofenac / misoprostol)

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Naproxen

(Naprosyn)

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Summary for Arthrotec

Prescription only

Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) is a combination medication used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in non-pregnant adults. The diclofenac in Arthrotec is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain and swelling, while the misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analog that lowers the risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers from diclofenac. Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) is taken by mouth, typically two to four times per day. Common side effects of this medication include stomach cramps (pain) and diarrhea. Avoid drinking alcohol with Arthrotec (diclofenac / misoprostol) because doing so can raise the risk of stomach bleeding.

Indications for Arthrotec

Pros and Cons for Arthrotec

Pros

  • Diclofenac works well to relieve symptoms of pain and swelling and misoprostol works well to lower the risk of stomach and intestinal ulcers and bleeding
  • Conveniently combines two medication in one pill
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Needs to be taken multiple times a day
  • Not safe to take at any time of pregnancy
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older or if you have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Arthrotec

  • Stomach pain (21%)
  • Diarrhea (19%)
  • Upset stomach or indigestion (14%)
  • Nausea (11%)
  • Gas (9%)

Warnings for Arthrotec

  • Harm to mother and unborn baby
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
  • Risk for bleeding

Summary for Naprosyn

Prescription only

Prescription-strength naproxen (Naprosyn) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be taken by adults and children to relieve pain and symptoms of certain conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout. Naproxen (Naprosyn) works by blocking specific proteins that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen (Naprosyn) comes as tablet and liquid suspension that are taken by mouth, typically 2 to 3 times per day. Some common side effects include heartburn, stomach pain, and nausea.

Indications for Naprosyn

Pros and Cons for Naprosyn

Pros

  • Works well for treating pain and inflammation
  • Effects last longer than other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
  • Available as a liquid for people who have a hard time swallowing pills

Cons

  • Can cause stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
  • Not safe to take after 20 weeks of pregnancy
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Naprosyn

The following side effects were reported in 3-9% of people in clinical studies:

  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Itchy skin
  • Bruising
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Swelling
  • Shortness of breath

Warnings for Naprosyn

  • Stomach bleeding
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding females

Prices with our coupons for Arthrotec vs. Naprosyn

Price Card Drug Icon
Diclofenac Sodium/Misoprostol60 tablets / 75mg/200mcg
$54.72$205.08
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Naproxen30 tablets / 500mg
$11.42$18.10
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