Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain from various conditions. It also reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by arthritis, bursitis, and gout attacks. Naproxen is available as both an over-the-counter and prescription medicine. It is also sometimes used to treat menstrual cramps and other types of short-term pain. Common side effects of naproxen include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain.
Naproxen is a medication commonly used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. Here's a breakdown of its key points:
Category: Naproxen belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [1].
Function: It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body [1, 2].
Uses:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief: It's available in various brand names like Aleve and relieves pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and arthritis discomfort [2, 3].
- Prescription pain relief: Doctors may prescribe naproxen for treating chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis [1, 3].
Forms: Naproxen comes in various formulations with different absorption rates:
- Immediate-release: Acts quickly but wears off faster [2].
- Delayed-release: Takes longer to work but provides longer-lasting pain relief [2].
- Extended-release: Similar to delayed-release but releases medication gradually over a longer period [2].
Important to Remember:
- NSAIDs like naproxen can irritate the stomach and increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, especially with high doses or long-term use [2, 3].
- It's crucial to consult a doctor before taking naproxen, especially if you have a history of stomach ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems [2, 3].