Naproxen

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, often called an NSAID. It relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and lowers fever. You can buy naproxen over the counter at Rite Aid without a prescription.

Naproxen works longer than many other pain relievers. A single dose can provide relief for 8 to 12 hours. This makes it helpful for conditions that cause ongoing pain or swelling throughout the day.

The medication comes in regular tablets, extended-release tablets, and liquid gel capsules. Brand names include Aleve, Naprosyn, and Anaprox. Generic naproxen works the same way as brand-name versions but costs less.

• Headaches and migraines
• Menstrual cramps and period pain
• Arthritis pain and joint inflammation
• Muscle aches and strains
• Back pain
• Toothaches and dental pain
• Minor injuries and sprains
• Tendonitis and bursitis
• Gout flare-ups
• Fever reduction

Naproxen blocks enzymes in your body called COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes make chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause inflammation, pain, and fever at injury sites or during illness. When naproxen blocks these enzymes, your body makes fewer prostaglandins.

With fewer prostaglandins, pain signals decrease and swelling goes down. This is why naproxen helps with both pain and inflammation. The medication starts working within 1 hour, and its effects last longer than ibuprofen or aspirin.

For adults, the typical OTC dose is 220 mg every 8 to 12 hours. Some people take 440 mg as a first dose, then 220 mg every 8 to 12 hours. Do not take more than 660 mg in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor. Take naproxen with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Do not use for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever without talking to a doctor.

• Upset stomach or heartburn
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Headache
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Gas or bloating
• Ringing in the ears

Stop taking naproxen and seek medical help if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of your body, slurred speech, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or severe stomach pain. Long-term use can increase risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious stomach bleeding. Call your doctor if you notice swelling in your legs, unusual weight gain, or decreased urination.

• Blood thinners like warfarin, increasing bleeding risk
• Other NSAIDs including aspirin and ibuprofen
• ACE inhibitors and blood pressure medications
• Diuretics or water pills
• Lithium
• Methotrexate
• SSRIs and antidepressants
• Corticosteroids like prednisone
• Alcohol, which increases stomach bleeding risk

Naproxen can affect your kidney function, especially with long-term use or high doses. Your kidneys filter this medication from your blood. Over time, naproxen may reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause damage. Monitoring your creatinine and eGFR levels helps detect kidney problems early. Creatinine is a waste product that healthy kidneys remove efficiently. eGFR stands for estimated glomerular filtration rate, which measures how well your kidneys filter blood. If you take naproxen regularly, consider getting kidney function tests every 6 to 12 months. People with existing kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or those over 60 should monitor kidney health more closely.