Naproxen is commonly prescribed for pain relief and to treat inflammation in conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains and strains and osteoarthritis. It is the preferred treatment for those who suffer inflammatory pain such as for the relief of pain and inflammation in joints and muscles.
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and works by reducing inflammation at the site of pain rather than in the central nervous system like paracetamol. Naproxen is a stronger anti-inflammatory than ibuprofen and is used in moderate pain and inflammation or where ibuprofen has been ineffective.
Naproxen is a stronger painkiller than ibuprofen with better anti-inflammatory activity. This medication works by blocking the effects of cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes in the body. These enzymes help to make other chemicals called prostaglandins that are produced at sites of injury to cause pain and inflammation. Blocking the effect of COX enzymes leads to fewer prostaglandins being produced, reducing pain and inflammation significantly.
Naproxen is particularly effective when treating:
- Arthritis
- Non-arthritic Joint pain
- Back pain
- Headaches and migraine
- Ligament Sprains
- Tendon Strains
- Gout
- Period pain and cramps
Naproxen comes in two different strengths, 250mg and 500mg. 250mg or 500mg can be taken up to twice a day. A gap of at least 6-8 hours must be kept between doses. Naproxen tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should be taken with or after food to minimize potential side effects.
The dosage of this medication is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. Naproxen can work as quickly as 1 hour after taking the first tablet, but it can take up to 3 days before the full effects are seen, if taken regularly twice a day.
If you forget to apply the gel at your usual time, don't worry, just apply it when you remember and then continue as before. The dose should never exceed what is recommended as the risk of a stomach ulcer or a gastrointestinal bleed is higher above that dose.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Common side effects include:
- confusion
- headache
- ringing in the ears
- changes in vision
- tiredness
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- rashes.
Uncommon side effects include:
- depression
- irregular heartbeat
- abnormal dreams
- forgetfulness
- difficulty concentrating
- sensitivity of the skin to light
- difficulty sleeping.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, or you are experiencing any of the side effects mentioned in the patient information leaflet whilst taking this medication, please contact our clinical team or speak to your GP.
Stop taking Naproxen tablets and contact your doctor immediately if you
- Have indigestion, heartburn, pains in your stomach or other abnormal stomach symptoms, feeling or being sick as you may have an ulcer or inflammation in the stomach or gut
- Pass blood in your faeces (stools/motions) or black tarry looking stools - these are signs of bleeding and perforation of the stomach and intestines).
- Vomit any blood or dark particles that look like coffee grounds
- Have an allergic reaction: swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, airways or body; skin reactions; difficulty breathing or wheezing, coughing up blood.
Drinking alcohol is fine while taking Naproxen in moderate quantities. Alcohol can irritate the stomach, adding to the NSAID effect of Naproxen.
Before using Naproxen, you must ensure your kidneys are working correctly. Prolonged use of period pain tablets can lead to kidney and liver damage
Naproxen is not usually recommended in pregnancy. This is because it may affect your baby, in particular causing problems with their circulation and amniotic fluid levels.
Naproxen is not usually recommended while you are breastfeeding. Other anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, are usually safer. Naproxen passes into breast milk in small amounts and is unlikely to harm your baby. But there have been 1 or 2 reports of side effects in babies after having naproxen through breast milk. These have included some effects on the babies' blood, drowsiness and being sick.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. These include:
- Hives
- Dizziness
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Wheezing
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are currently taking. You must also tell us about any other medical conditions that you currently have (or had in the past). This will help us ensure the prescribed medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.
For full information on warnings, medication interactions and contraindications, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet. Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform our clinical team or your GP of medicines you are taking or intend to take.
