Over the counter, the brand name for naproxen is Aleve. It contains a lower dose of naproxen than prescription versions.

Common brands for prescription naproxen include Naprosyn, Anaprox, and Naprelan.

While naproxen and aspirin are both NSAIDs, they are not the same. Naproxen is available over the counter and as a prescription. It is used to treat acute and chronic pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis, gout, and back pain.

Aspirin is available over the counter, and it is typically used to relieve minor pain and to reduce the risk of death from heart attack and stroke. Aspirin should not be given to children under 12 years of age and should not be given to anyone under the age of 18 with a viral illness or fever due to the risk of Reye syndrome.

Naproxen works by blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes. This then causes the body to make fewer prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation.

Naproxen can start relieving pain within 30 minutes to an hour, and its effects may last for up to 12 hours.

No, you should not take naproxen and ibuprofen together. Both naproxen and ibuprofen are NSAIDs. They work the same way in the body to decrease pain and inflammation. Taking them at the same time will increase your risk of severe side effects, including stomach irritation or bleeding, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and even heart attack or stroke.

Naproxen lasts longer than ibuprofen and is typically taken every 8 to 12 hours, depending on the condition and formulation. Ibuprofen is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. If you need to switch medications, you must wait at least 12 hours after taking naproxen or 8 hours after taking ibuprofen.

Yes, naproxen can be used to treat an acute gout attack. Naproxen can reduce swelling and pain associated with gout.

It is important to keep in mind that naproxen will not treat the underlying cause of gout, which is high uric acid levels. Your provider may recommend other medications to treat or prevent gout attacks.

For an acute attack, prescription NSAIDs, like naproxen, celecoxib, diclofenac, meloxicam or indomethacin, are often prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. People who are unable to take NSAIDs may be prescribed a corticosteroid, like prednisone, to reduce inflammation. Colchicine is also used to reduce inflammation during an acute attack and may be used to prevent future flares.

Allopurinol and febuxostat are prescription medications that effectively lower uric acid levels in the body. These medications will not treat an acute attack but will work to prevent future attacks.