The search term “P190 pill” refers to an imprint code used for medication identification, not a trade name. Manufacturers place these codes directly on the tablet or capsule to allow patients and healthcare providers to quickly identify a drug’s contents, strength, and origin. Correctly identifying any loose medication is fundamental to ensuring patient safety. The specific imprint associated with this search is “IP 190 500,” which identifies a commonly prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This identifier is crucial for understanding the drug’s purpose, active ingredients, and necessary safety considerations.
Decoding the “P190” Imprint
The imprint “IP 190 500” identifies Naproxen at a strength of 500 milligrams (mg). The letters “IP” often signify the manufacturing company, and “190” is a unique identifier assigned to this specific formulation. The number “500” denotes the dosage of the active ingredient.
This tablet is typically white and oval or elliptical. Generic manufacturers use unique imprint codes to ensure all solid oral dosage forms are identifiable and traceable back to the specific batch and producer. This identification is important because Naproxen is available in multiple strengths and formulations, both over-the-counter and by prescription.
Active Ingredient and Drug Classification
The active ingredient in the P190 pill is Naproxen, which belongs to the pharmacological class known as Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Naproxen is a propionic acid derivative known for its ability to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and lower fever. The drug functions as a non-selective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme system.
The COX enzyme has two main forms, COX-1 and COX-2, both of which are blocked by Naproxen. COX-2 is the inducible form, whose production increases significantly at sites of tissue injury or inflammation, leading to the synthesis of pain-causing prostaglandins. By inhibiting COX-2, the drug achieves its primary therapeutic effects of reducing swelling and pain.
The COX-1 enzyme is continually active, responsible for producing prostaglandins that maintain normal physiological functions, including protecting the stomach lining and supporting renal blood flow. Naproxen’s inhibition of COX-1 is the mechanism that leads to potential gastrointestinal side effects and other adverse reactions. The chemical structure of Naproxen allows it to block the active sites of both enzyme isoforms, interrupting the cascade that converts arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory compounds.
Primary Medical Applications
Naproxen 500 mg is frequently prescribed for musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions requiring extended pain relief. Its long half-life (12 to 17 hours) allows for less frequent dosing compared to some other NSAIDs, making it suitable for chronic conditions. The 500 mg strength is generally reserved for prescription use, targeting pain and inflammation that requires a higher concentration than over-the-counter formulations.
The primary medical applications include:
- Treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, where it helps reduce joint stiffness, swelling, and pain.
- Managing acute inflammatory issues such as bursitis and tendonitis.
- Serving as a first-line therapy for acute gout, quickly suppressing the inflammatory response causing intense discomfort.
- Managing moderate pain, including primary dysmenorrhea (severe menstrual cramps), by reducing prostaglandin production responsible for uterine contractions.
Important Usage Guidelines and Safety Profile
When taking Naproxen 500 mg, adherence to specific usage guidelines is important to maximize benefit and minimize potential risks. Dosing is typically twice daily, with the goal of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms. Patients are advised to take the tablet with food or milk to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, a common side effect associated with NSAIDs.
A significant safety consideration is the drug’s potential to increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including heart attack and stroke. This risk can occur early in the treatment and may increase with the duration of use or in patients with pre-existing heart conditions. There is also a risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Common side effects can include indigestion, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and headache. Patients should immediately seek medical attention if they experience symptoms like black or bloody stools, persistent abdominal pain, or swelling of the face or throat. Individuals with a history of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding should discuss alternative pain management options with a healthcare provider. Individuals should always consult a licensed medical professional before beginning, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.