Naproxen (brand names include Aleve
®,
Naprosyn®,
EC-Naprosyn®,
Anaprox®, Anaprox
® DS, and
Naprelan®) is a medication approved to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by many conditions. Specifically, it can help with injuries,
arthritis, gout, and menstrual cramps, as well as other types of bone, muscle, or tendon pain.
The medicine comes in tablet, caplet (capsule-shaped tablet), or liquid form. It is usually taken by mouth no more than twice daily or every 12 hours as needed (or as directed by your healthcare provider) for pain relief.
It's important to review naproxen's safety information before taking this medication. For example, this product increases your risk of
high blood pressure, liver damage, and kidney problems. Most people tolerate the medicine well, however; if side effects do occur, they tend to be mild and easy to treat. In clinical studies, the most common adverse reactions included
heartburn, stomach pain, and nausea.
(For more information on this medication, click Naproxen. This article takes an in-depth look at the conditions it can treat, how the drug works, and why it's important to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time.)
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