Naprosyn (naproxen) is a trusted nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed for the management of moderate pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and acute gout. As a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, it effectively reduces prostaglandin synthesis, offering both analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits. Available by prescription in various strengths and formulations, including delayed-release and liquid forms, it provides flexible dosing tailored to individual therapeutic needs. Its well-established efficacy and safety profile make it a cornerstone in clinical practice for both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Features

• Active ingredient: Naproxen
• Available strengths: 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg tablets; 125 mg/5 mL suspension
• Formulations: Immediate-release tablets, delayed-release tablets, oral suspension
• Prescription-only medication in most regions
• Class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Half-life: Approximately 12–17 hours, allowing for twice-daily dosing
• Onset of action: Within 1 hour for analgesic effects; anti-inflammatory effects may take up to 2 weeks for full efficacy

Benefits

• Provides powerful relief from pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions
• Reduces joint swelling and stiffness, improving mobility and functional capacity
• Long half-life supports consistent therapeutic levels with convenient twice-daily dosing
• Effective for dysmenorrhea, acute migraine, and other moderate pain conditions
• Available in multiple formulations to accommodate patient-specific needs and preferences
• Well-documented efficacy backed by decades of clinical use and research

Common use

Naprosyn is commonly prescribed for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile arthritis, and acute painful conditions such as tendinitis and bursitis. It is also used for the relief of primary dysmenorrhea and acute migraine attacks. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly useful in managing chronic inflammatory disorders where reduction of swelling and improvement in joint function are desired outcomes.

Dosage and direction

For adults, the typical dosage for inflammatory conditions is 250–500 mg twice daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1,500 mg for limited periods, with maintenance doses usually ranging from 500–1,000 mg daily. For acute pain or dysmenorrhea, an initial dose of 500 mg may be followed by 250 mg every 6–8 hours as needed. Naprosyn should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Delayed-release tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Dosage adjustments are necessary in elderly patients and those with renal impairment.

Precautions

Patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation should use Naprosyn with extreme caution. Cardiovascular risk assessment is recommended before initiating long-term therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing heart disease or risk factors. Renal function should be monitored during prolonged use, as NSAIDs can cause renal toxicity. Use during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, should be avoided due to potential fetal harm. Patients with asthma, especially those with aspirin-sensitive asthma, may experience exacerbations.

Contraindications

Naprosyn is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. It should not be used in those who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Use is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Severe heart failure, active peptic ulcer disease, and severe renal impairment are also contraindications to therapy.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include dyspepsia, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache. Serious adverse effects may include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation; cardiovascular thrombotic events such as myocardial infarction or stroke; hypertension; heart failure; renal impairment; and severe skin reactions. Hepatotoxicity, including elevated liver enzymes and rare cases of hepatitis, has been reported. Patients should be advised to seek medical attention for signs of bleeding, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech.

Drug interaction

Naprosyn may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or aspirin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects. It may reduce the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics. Naprosyn can increase lithium and methotrexate levels, necessitating monitoring. Use with corticosteroids or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may further increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose to make up for a missed one is not recommended.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, epigastric pain, and rarely, gastrointestinal bleeding. In severe cases, hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma may occur. Management is supportive and includes gastric lavage or activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Symptomatic treatment should be provided, and electrolyte balance monitored.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), away from light and moisture. Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Oral suspension should not be frozen.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication. The prescribing physician should be aware of the patient’s full medical history, concurrent medications, and potential contraindications. Dosage and treatment duration should be individualized based on clinical evaluation and therapeutic response.

Reviews

Clinical studies and meta-analyses consistently demonstrate Naprosyn’s efficacy in reducing pain and inflammation across various conditions. In osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis trials, it has shown significant improvement in pain scores and functional indices compared to placebo. Patient-reported outcomes often highlight improved quality of life and mobility. However, its use requires careful risk-benefit assessment, particularly concerning gastrointestinal and cardiovascular safety profiles. Long-term observational data support its role as a effective option when used appropriately under medical supervision.