Combination Option for Patients with Arthritis
The FDA has approved a combination of the acid suppressor generic lansoprazole (Prevacid®, TAP) and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) naproxen (Naprosyn drug) for patients who must take NSAIDs to treat the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), and ankylosing spondylitis. The product, called Preva-cid® NapraPAC™, has been found to reduce the risk of recurrent NSAID-associated gastric ulcers in patients with a history of these ulcers.
NSAIDs, such as aspirin and naproxen, can cause ulcers by interfering with the stomach’s ability to protect itself from gastric irritants, such as acid.
Prevacid® NapraPAC™ is available as a daily dose of one Prevacid 15 mg delayed-release capsule and two Naprosyn tablets of either 375 mg or 500 mg.
The product is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of either drug. Naproxen is contraindicated in patients in whom aspirin or other NSAIDs or analgesic drugs induce the syndrome of asthma, rhinitis, and nasal polyps. Both types of reactions have the potential to be fatal. Other naproxen-containing products should not be used concomitantly.
Serious gastrointesinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation can occur with or without warning symptoms in patients receiving chronic NSAID therapy.
