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Naproxen Sodium
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Naproxen sodium and other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.
By blocking the effects of prostaglandins, naproxen sodium is useful in reducing pain related to bone, muscle, or tendon injury or inflammation; reducing fever; and alleviating pain and joint swelling associated with different forms of arthritis and other diseases.
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include the following:
- Naproxen sodium comes in tablet, gelcap, or caplet (capsule-shaped tablet) form. The medication is usually taken by mouth no more than twice a day or every 12 hours. It works best when taken with food.
- For the medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
- It is important to take the lowest effective dose for the least amount of time in order to treat your condition. This will decrease the chances of serious side effects occurring.
The dosage of naproxen sodium that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so. You should not take over-the-counter naproxen sodium for more than 10 days without first talking to your healthcare provider.
(Click Naproxen Sodium Dosage for more information.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



