Naproxen

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-Naproxen, Aleve, Aspen Naproxen, Napflam, Synflex

Popular combinations:

Vimovo

Drug group:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, stiffness and inflammation associated with:

• Arthritic conditions: adult/juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, acute gout attacks
• General pain: migraine, pain following orthopaedic surgery or dental treatment, soft tissue injuries like strains/sprains, menstrual cramps

How should it be used?

• The drug should be taken with food
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Mild to moderate general pain and menstrual cramps: 500mg (starting dose), then 250mg every 6–8 hours as required
• Gout: 750mg (starting dose), then 250mg every 8 hours until attack has subsided
• Other arthritis: 500–1000mg 1–2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Pain relief within 1 hour, full anti-inflammatory effect 2 weeks 

How long will the effects last?

Up to 12 hours     

When should I stop using it?

Short-term pain relief: can be safely stopped when no longer needed; long-term treatment: discuss with your doctor before stopping the drug. 
             

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Prolonged use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, heart attacks and strokes. It is often prescribed with a gastro-protective drug.

What are the possible side effects?

Most side effects are not serious and may diminish with time.

The following have been reported:

• More common: indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting
• Less common: headache, drowsiness, dizziness, swelling of the legs/feet, weight gain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash/itching, black or blood-stained stool, wheezing, breathlessness

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney/heart problems, high blood pressure, asthma, bleeding disorder, previous/current peptic ulcer or oesophagitis or acid indigestion, allergy to aspirin/NSAIDs
• Other medicines: lithium, methotrexate, digoxin, antihypertensives, diuretics, ciclosporin
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not advised during pregnancy, safe for use during breastfeeding at normal doses
• Children: Only used to treat juvenile arthritis, reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, increased likelihood of adverse effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug may reduce your ability to concentrate
• Alcohol: Avoid, alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation with naproxen
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: Naproxen may prolong bleeding, notify your doctor