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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
08:58
Using Caenorhabditis elegans for Studying Trans- and Multi-Generational Effects of Toxicants
Published on: July 29, 2019
[Developmental toxicity of naproxen].
Franciszek Burdan1, Justyna Sykut, Piotr Przybylski
1Akademia Medyczna w Lublinie, Pracownia Teratologii Doświadczalnej Katedry i Zakładu Anatomii Prawidłowej Człowieka. fb3@wp.pl
Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski : Organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego
|November 30, 2007
Summary
Naproxen, an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has potential developmental toxicity risks. Studies show it can cause fetal heart defects, anuria, and other serious complications.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Developmental Toxicology
Context:
- Naproxen is a widely available nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and tocolytic properties.
- Its high therapeutic potency and favorable adult safety profile have led to its availability as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication.
Purpose:
- To define the developmental toxicity of naproxen.
- To investigate the effects of naproxen exposure during pregnancy on fetal development.
Summary:
- Experimental studies indicate naproxen inhibits ovulation and crosses the placental barrier.
- Naproxen can cause constriction of the ductus arteriosus, leading to fetal anuria or oliguria, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and oligohydramnion.
- Naproxen exposure may also induce orofacial clefts and cardiac malformations, particularly ventricular septal defects.
Impact:
- Highlights potential risks associated with NSAID use during pregnancy.
- Informs clinical guidelines regarding naproxen and similar drug safety in pregnant populations.
- Underscores the need for comprehensive developmental toxicity assessments for commonly used medications.
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