Description

Naproxen – Prescription & Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Medication

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, inflammation, and certain symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions. Depending on the formulation and strength, naproxen may be available as a prescription medication or as an over-the-counter naproxen sodium product.

Prescription naproxen is used for conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendonitis, bursitis, acute gout, pain, and primary dysmenorrhea. OTC naproxen sodium products are labeled for temporary relief of minor aches and pains and temporary reduction of fever.

What Is Naproxen?

Naproxen belongs to a group of medicines called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing the body’s production of substances involved in pain and inflammation.

Naproxen is available in different formulations and strengths. Prescription naproxen tablets commonly include 250 mg, 375 mg, and 500 mg strengths, while common OTC naproxen sodium products contain 220 mg of naproxen sodium per tablet, equivalent to 200 mg of naproxen.

Naproxen Uses

Depending on the formulation, naproxen may be used to help manage:

• Arthritis pain and inflammation
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Acute gout
• General pain
• Menstrual cramps
• Minor muscle aches
• Backache
• Headache
• Toothache
• Fever

The appropriate product, strength, and treatment duration depend on the patient’s medical condition and whether prescription or OTC naproxen is being used.

Naproxen Pain Relief

Naproxen can provide relief from pain associated with inflammation. As an NSAID, it may be particularly useful when pain and inflammation occur together.

Healthcare professionals generally recommend using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with the patient’s treatment goals when prescription naproxen is used.

Important Naproxen Safety Information

Naproxen and other NSAIDs can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke. NSAIDs can also cause serious gastrointestinal problems, including bleeding, ulcers, and perforation of the stomach or intestines. These complications can occur without warning and may be life-threatening.

Patients should tell their healthcare professional about their medical history and all medications they take before using naproxen.

Naproxen may not be appropriate for everyone, including certain people with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, or NSAID allergies.

Naproxen is contraindicated around coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Naproxen and Other Medications

Patients should check with a healthcare professional before combining naproxen with other NSAIDs or medications that may increase the risk of bleeding or other complications.

Do not take multiple naproxen-containing products at the same time unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.

Prescription and OTC Naproxen

Naproxen is available in both prescription and OTC forms, but these products are not necessarily interchangeable. Prescription products and OTC naproxen sodium products can have different strengths, indications, and dosing instructions.

Always follow the specific product label or the instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Product Information

Generic Name: Naproxen / Naproxen Sodium
Drug Class: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Uses: Pain and inflammation management; specific conditions vary by formulation
Prescription Status: Prescription or OTC depending on formulation and strength
Common Prescription Strengths: 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg
Common OTC Strength: Naproxen sodium 220 mg

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