Naproxen
Brand names: Naprosyn, Aleve, Anaprox
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Naproxen is a long-acting NSAID with a longer dosing interval than ibuprofen — twice daily rather than three times daily. It has a slightly more favourable cardiovascular profile among NSAIDs and is particularly useful for conditions requiring sustained anti-inflammatory coverage.
Drug Class
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Category
Pain Relief
Forms Available
Tablets (250 mg, 500 mg), Enteric-coated tablets
How It Works
Non-selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor — reduces prostaglandin synthesis, lowering inflammation, pain, and fever.
What It's Used For
- Musculoskeletal pain — arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, back pain
- Gout attacks
- Dysmenorrhoea (period pain)
- Headache and migraine
- Fever
Available Forms
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- GI upset, nausea, heartburn
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fluid retention (mild oedema)
Serious Side Effects
- GI bleeding and peptic ulcer
- Kidney impairment
- Cardiovascular events (lower risk than diclofenac/rofecoxib, similar to ibuprofen)
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants — increased bleeding risk
- ACE inhibitors and diuretics — kidney risk
- Lithium — raised lithium levels
- SSRIs — GI bleeding risk
When to Avoid
- Active peptic ulcer or GI bleeding
- Severe renal impairment
- Third trimester pregnancy
- NSAID allergy or AERD
Patient Tips
- Standard adult dose: 500 mg twice daily with food; maximum 1 g/day OTC
- Longer action means fewer doses per day versus ibuprofen
- Take with food or milk; consider a PPI if using regularly
Naproxen vs ibuprofen
| Feature | Naproxen | Ibuprofen |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of action | 8–12 hours | 4–6 hours |
| Typical dosing | Twice daily | Three times daily |
| Cardiovascular risk | Lower (among NSAIDs) | Moderate |
| GI risk | Similar | Similar |
| Available as | OTC & prescription | OTC & prescription |
Related Medicines
Medical disclaimer
This page is for educational reference only. Always follow the dosage and instructions given by your prescriber or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change medicines without medical advice.
Reviewed 2026-06-01 · Looms Medical Team