Naproxen
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation — for example joint pain, period pain, sprains, or arthritis flares — when your prescriber or pharmacist judges it suitable.
This medicine is part of the Pain relief category.
Generic name: naproxen
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation — for example joint pain, period pain, sprains, or arthritis flares — when your prescribe…
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Common effects include indigestion, heartburn, nausea, headache, or dizziness.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Naproxen interacts with blood thinners, lithium, methotrexate, blood pressure medicines, SSRIs, and other NSAIDs.
More about what Naproxen is used for
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation — for example joint pain, period pain, sprains, or arthritis flares — when your prescriber or pharmacist judges it suitable.
It is often prescribed when a longer-acting NSAID is preferred to Ibuprofen for some conditions; duration and dose are individual.
How does Naproxen work, and how long does it take to work?
Naproxen reduces prostaglandins, chemicals involved in pain, inflammation, and fever. Effects may last longer per dose than some other NSAIDs.
Like all NSAIDs, it carries stomach, kidney, and cardiovascular warnings, especially with long-term or high-dose use.
How and when should you take Naproxen?
Take naproxen exactly as prescribed or as the pharmacy label states — often with or after food to reduce stomach upset. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration.
Do not take naproxen together with Ibuprofen or other NSAIDs unless a specialist directs this.
What are the common side effects of Naproxen?
Common effects include indigestion, heartburn, nausea, headache, or dizziness. Ringing in the ears can occur with higher doses.
Stop and seek advice if you develop black stools, vomiting blood, or severe stomach pain.
Serious side effects of Naproxen — when to get urgent help
Call 999 for severe chest pain, breathlessness, collapse, or severe allergic swelling. NSAIDs can cause serious stomach bleeding or kidney problems, especially in older adults or with other risk factors.
Seek same-day help for reduced urine output, confusion, or widespread rash.
What if you miss a dose of Naproxen?
If you take naproxen regularly and miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is due soon. Do not double up.
Many people use naproxen on a short prescribed course — finish as directed unless your prescriber says otherwise.
Who should not take Naproxen?
Do not take naproxen if you have had allergy or asthma attacks with Aspirin or NSAIDs, active ulcer bleeding, or third-trimester pregnancy.
Use great caution with heart failure, kidney disease, and if you take anticoagulants, steroids, SSRIs, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or diuretics — speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Naproxen? — other interactions
Naproxen interacts with blood thinners, lithium, Methotrexate, blood pressure medicines, SSRIs, and other NSAIDs. Low-dose Aspirin timing may need pharmacist advice.
Alcohol increases stomach bleed risk.
Naproxen in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in late pregnancy. If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your GP or midwife before use.
Blood tests and monitoring on Naproxen
Short courses may need no tests. Longer use may prompt blood pressure or kidney checks in some people.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Naproxen?
Your GP or pharmacist may suggest Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, topical treatments, physiotherapy, or stomach protection if an NSAID remains necessary.
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Frequently asked questions about Naproxen
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Naproxen used for?
- Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation — for example joint pain, period pain, sprains, or arthritis flares — when your prescriber or pharmacist judges it suitable.
- How long does Naproxen take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Naproxen with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Naproxen interacts with blood thinners, lithium, Methotrexate, blood pressure medicines, SSRIs, and other NSAIDs.
- What are the side effects of Naproxen?
- Common effects include indigestion, heartburn, nausea, headache, or dizziness. Ringing in the ears can occur with higher doses. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Naproxen vs ibuprofen — what is the difference?
- Both are NSAIDs. Naproxen often lasts longer per dose; both share stomach and kidney warnings. Your prescriber or pharmacist chooses based on your condition and other medicines.
- Can I take naproxen with paracetamol?
- Many adults can combine short term with correct dosing limits if both are suitable for them — ask your pharmacist for a clear schedule.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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