Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 6/18/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

• Brand Name: Aleve, Naprosyn
  
• Generic Name: Naproxen
  
• Uses: Treatment for pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps
  
• Drug Class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
  
• Availability: Prescription and over-the-counter
  
• Generic Status: Yes
  
• Controlled Substance: No
  
  

Naproxen (Naprosyn) is a prescription medication that is used to manage pain and symptoms related to musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that affects the spine), juvenile arthritis (arthritis in children), tendonitis, bursitis, and acute gout. It may also be prescribed to treat pain caused by menstruation.

Non-prescription (over-the-counter) naproxen (Aleve) is used to reduce symptoms of colds, fevers, headaches, and other forms of non-urgent pain.

Naproxen does not cure these conditions. Instead, it helps to relieve symptoms and manage discomfort associated with these conditions.

Prescription naproxen is used to treat pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis
  
• Rheumatoid arthritis
  
• Ankylosing spondylitis
  
• Juvenile arthritis
  
• Tendonitis
  
• Bursitis
  
• Acute gout
  
• Menstrual pain
  
  

Over-the-counter naproxen is used to treat pain caused by conditions such as:

• Common cold
  
• Fever
  
• Headaches
  
• Toothaches
  
• Menstrual periods
  
• Backaches
  
  

Naproxen belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs work by blocking enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX), specifically COX-1 and COX-2, which play a pivotal role in producing prostaglandins—chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation. By inhibiting these enzymes, NSAIDs lower the levels of prostaglandins, subsequently alleviating pain and decreasing inflammation.

Naproxen is available as an oral tablet, oral suspension, and extended-release tablet.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.

Naproxen is used to manage pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps. The effects can be noticeable within a few hours, but optimal relief for chronic conditions may take a few days.

Continue using naproxen as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of your condition.

While naproxen is primarily used to treat pain, inflammation, and stiffness, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions, such as migraines.

Discuss any alternative uses of naproxen with your healthcare provider.

Naproxen is available in the following dosage forms:

• Oral tablets
  
• Oral suspension
  
• Extended-release tablets
  
  

Naproxen is available both by prescription and over the counter. To obtain the prescription form, you must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.