Naprosyn (naproxen) is a well-established nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendinitis, bursitis, and acute gout. It is also indicated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. As a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, Naprosyn works by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. Its prolonged duration of action allows for less frequent dosing compared to some other NSAIDs, offering patients sustained symptomatic control and improved compliance. Available in both prescription and over-the-counter strengths, it remains a cornerstone in anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy under appropriate medical supervision.

Features

• Active ingredient: Naproxen
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Available forms: Oral tablets, delayed-release tablets, liquid suspensions
• Strengths: 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg (prescription); 220 mg (over-the-counter)
• Mechanism: Reversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-1 and COX-2)
• Half-life: Approximately 12–17 hours
• Onset of action: 1 hour for pain relief; anti-inflammatory effects may take up to 2 weeks for full efficacy
• Bioavailability: Over 95% when taken orally
• Excretion: Primarily renal

Benefits

• Provides effective and sustained relief from inflammatory pain and stiffness
• Reduces swelling and improves joint mobility in arthritic conditions
• Offers convenient twice-daily dosing for consistent therapeutic levels
• Demonstrates well-characterized safety and efficacy profiles from decades of clinical use
• Available in multiple formulations to suit individual patient needs and preferences
• Can be used for both acute pain episodes and chronic inflammatory management

Common use

Naprosyn is commonly prescribed for a range of musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions. In rheumatology, it is a first-line treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, helping to reduce joint pain, morning stiffness, and swelling. It is also effective in managing ankylosing spondylitis, acute gout attacks, and soft tissue disorders like tendinitis and bursitis. In gynecology, it is used for primary dysmenorrhea to alleviate menstrual cramps. Off-label uses may include headache, dental pain, and postoperative pain management. Its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties make it a versatile agent in both primary and specialty care settings.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on the condition being treated, severity of symptoms, patient response, and risk factors. For adults with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis, the usual initial dose is 250 mg to 500 mg twice daily. The maintenance dose may be adjusted within the range of 375 mg to 500 mg twice daily. For acute gout, the recommended starting dose is 750 mg, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the attack subsides. For primary dysmenorrhea, the initial dose is 500 mg, followed by 250 mg every 6–8 hours as needed. Over-the-counter Naprosyn (220 mg) should be taken every 8–12 hours, not exceeding 660 mg in 24 hours. Tablets should be taken with a full glass of water to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation, and with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush, chew, or break delayed-release tablets.

Precautions

Patients should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. NSAIDs, including Naprosyn, increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use and in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors. Naprosyn also increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Use with caution in patients with a history of GI events, in the elderly, and in those taking corticosteroids, anticoagulants, or other NSAIDs. Periodic monitoring of hemoglobin, renal function, and liver enzymes is advisable during long-term therapy. Avoid use in patients with advanced renal disease, severe heart failure, or hepatic impairment.

Contraindications

Naprosyn is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. It should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients. Do not use in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Contraindicated in patients with a history of prostaglandin-induced asthma. Avoid use in patients with active peptic ulcer disease or recent gastrointestinal bleeding. Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment or in those with creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min. Should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy due to risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus.

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%) include dyspepsia, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, lightheadedness, and tinnitus. Less common but more serious adverse reactions may include gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, hepatotoxicity (elevated liver enzymes, jaundice), renal impairment (elevated creatinine, reduced urine output), hypertension, edema, heart failure, skin reactions (rash, photosensitivity), and hematologic effects (anemia, leukopenia). Severe cutaneous adverse reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported rarely. Patients should seek immediate medical attention for signs of allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing), chest pain, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, black stools, or vomiting blood.

Drug interaction

Naprosyn may interact with several drug classes. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of GI toxicity. It may reduce the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and beta-blockers. May increase lithium levels and risk of lithium toxicity. Can enhance the effects of warfarin and other anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding. Use with corticosteroids increases the risk of GI ulceration. May decrease the efficacy of diuretics and increase the risk of renal impairment. Concomitant use with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase the risk of bleeding. Methotrexate toxicity may be enhanced. Cyclosporine levels may increase, raising the risk of nephrotoxicity.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent blood levels is important for anti-inflammatory efficacy, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to cause significant loss of effect in chronic use. Patients should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose, as this increases the risk of side effects.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, coma, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and metabolic acidosis. In severe cases, hypertension, tachycardia, bradycardia, or atrial fibrillation may occur. There is no specific antidote for naproxen overdose. Management is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if presented early. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, or hemoperfusion may not be useful. Monitor vital signs, renal function, electrolyte balance, and provide respiratory support if needed.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20°–25°C or 68°–77°F), away from light, moisture, and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not store in the bathroom or near sinks. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused or expired medication through a medicine take-back program or by following FDA-recommended disposal steps (do not flush unless instructed).

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The content is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Reviews

Naprosyn has been extensively studied and widely used since its introduction in the 1970s. Clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance demonstrate its efficacy in reducing pain and inflammation across multiple indications. Patient reviews often highlight its effectiveness in managing chronic arthritis pain, with many reporting significant improvement in mobility and quality of life. Some users note gastrointestinal side effects, which are consistent with its known safety profile. Healthcare professionals value its predictable pharmacokinetics and well-established dosing. Overall, it remains a trusted option within the NSAID class when used appropriately under medical guidance. Long-term studies support its utility in chronic inflammatory conditions, though caution is advised regarding cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks.