Naproxen
Generic Name: Naproxen
Uses & Medical Indications
Relief of mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and fever
Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dysmenorrhea, Gout, Pain
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Naproxen calms inflammation and blocks chemical pain signals in the nervous system to deliver targeted relief from aches, fever, and stiffness.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Naproxen reduces pain perception and inflammatory hyperalgesia by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-mediated prostaglandin synthesis or modulating central nociceptive transmission.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
250-500 mg twice daily
10 mg/kg/day in two divided doses (JRA)
Use lowest effective dose
1500 mg/day for short-term; 1000 mg/day chronic
Not recommended if CrCl < 30 mL/min
Use caution; lower dose recommended
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, headache, edema
GI ulceration/bleeding, MI, stroke, renal failure
CABG surgery setting, history of asthma/urticaria after NSAIDs
Cardiovascular risk, GI risk
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
Anticoagulants, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, SSRIs
Take with food or milk to minimize GI upset
Increases risk of GI bleeding
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Avoid at 30 weeks gestation and later
Excreted in human milk; avoid if possible
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Take with food. Do not take other NSAIDs concurrently.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to next dose.
Pain relief, CBC, chemistry profile, BP
Related Medicines in Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Naproxen was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.