Key takeaways
Naproxen is a type of medication known as an NSAID.[1,3]
It reduces fever and relieves pain by targeting it at the site of inflammation.[3,4]
It is commonly used for minor pain of arthritis, muscle pain, back pain, headaches, and menstrual cramps.[1,2]
Naproxen is available both over the counter and by prescription.[1]
Naproxen sodium is available in both over-the-counter and prescription products, while naproxen is available by prescription only.
What Is Naproxen?
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Over-the-counter products contain naproxen sodium, a form of naproxen that helps temporarily relieve minor aches and pains and reduce fever. Naproxen works by decreasing the body's production of prostaglandins, substances involved in pain, fever, and inflammation. Prescription-strength naproxen products may be used under a doctor's supervision for certain painful and inflammatory conditions.[1,3]
What Is the Difference Between Naproxen and Naproxen Sodium?
Naproxen and naproxen sodium contain the same active medicine, but they are formulated differently. The main difference is that naproxen sodium includes a small amount of sodium, or salt, which helps the tablet dissolve and absorb more quickly in the body. Because of this difference, some naproxen sodium products may begin working faster than naproxen. Naproxen sodium is available in both over-the-counter and prescription-strength products, while naproxen is available by prescription only. Both forms work to provide pain-relieving effects. Always follow the directions on the product label and talk to a healthcare professional if you have questions about which formulation may be appropriate for you.
How Does Naproxen Work?
Naproxen works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which help the body produce prostaglandins.[3,4] Prostaglandins are substances involved in pain and fever, including pain where inflammation may be involved. By reducing prostaglandins, naproxen can help relieve pain and reduce fever.
What Is Naproxen Used For?
Naproxen may be used to help relieve pain and inflammation associated with several conditions.[1,2]
Headaches
Naproxen may be used for temporary relief of certain types of headaches.[5]
Back Pain
Short-term episodes of back pain are another common reason people use naproxen.[2]
Muscle Aches and Pain
Naproxen may help relieve pain associated with minor aches and pains.[2]
Toothaches
Naproxen may help temporarily relieve toothache pain. Dental pain can involve inflammation, and naproxen works by reducing prostaglandins at sites of inflammation. Tooth pain may also be a sign of an infection or other dental problem, so contact a dentist or healthcare professional if pain is severe, does not improve, or occurs with swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms.[1,3]
Menstrual Cramps
Naproxen is often used to help relieve menstrual cramps because it reduces prostaglandin production, which plays a role in menstrual pain.[1,4]
Arthritis
Naproxen is commonly used to help relieve symptoms associated with minor arthritis pain.[1,2]
Fever
Like many NSAIDs, naproxen can also help reduce fever.[3]
Is Naproxen an NSAID?
Yes. Naproxen belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs.[1,3]
Other medications in the NSAID category include ibuprofen and aspirin, although each medication has its own uses, benefits, and risks.[1]
What Symptoms Can Naproxen Help Relieve?
Naproxen may be used to help relieve symptoms associated with:
Temporary reduces fever
Temporary relief of minor aches and pains due to:
Headache
Backache
Muscular aches
Toothaches
Menstrual cramps
Minor pain of arthritis
The common cold
What Are the Some Side Effects of Naproxen?
Like all medications, naproxen can cause side effects. Not everybody experiences them.[1]
Potential side effects may include[1]:
Constipation
Gas
Excessive thirst
Headache
Dizziness
NSAIDs may also carry more serious risks for some individuals, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events. Risk may vary based on factors such as age, medical history, dosage, and duration of use.[1]
This is not an exhaustive list of warnings associated with naproxen. Read the relevant drug facts label before taking any medication. If you experience concerning symptoms or side effects, contact a healthcare professional.
When Should You Talk to a Doctor About Naproxen?
Ask a doctor before use if:
The stomach bleeding warning applies to you
You have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn
You have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or had a stroke
You are taking a diuretic
You have problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are:
Under a doctor’s care for any serious condition
Taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, because naproxen sodium may decrease this benefit of aspirin
Taking the blood thinning drug warfarin
Taking any other drug
TYLENOL® with Naproxen
TYLENOL® with Naproxen combines the fast action of acetaminophen with the long-lasting analgesia of naproxen — 650mg of acetaminophen with 220mg of naproxen sodium in one dose. It starts working in under 30 minutes and keeps pain controlled for 12 hours.
FAQs
- Naproxen Drug Information, MedlinePlus, https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681029.html
- Naproxen (Oral Route) Description and Uses, Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/naproxen-oral-route/description/drg-20069820