An Introduction to Dosing With Naproxen
- The specific naproxen product taken (naproxen sodium dosing is slightly different from naproxen dosing)
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
Do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so. You should not take over-the-counter (OTC) naproxen for more than 10 days without consulting your healthcare provider.
Naproxen Dosage for Mild-to-Moderate Pain
The recommended starting prescription-strength dose for most people with mild-to-moderate pain or painful menstruation is one of the following:
- Naproxen 500 mg taken by mouth to start, followed by 250 mg by mouth every six to eight hours as needed. The daily dose should not exceed 1.25 grams.
- Naproxen 500 mg extended-release taken by mouth once daily. The daily dose should not exceed 1 gram.
- Naproxen sodium 550 mg taken by mouth to start, followed by 275 mg every six to eight hours as needed. Your daily dose should not exceed 1.375 grams.
The recommended nonprescription dosage for most people over age 12 is naproxen sodium 220 mg taken by mouth every 8 to 12 hours as needed. The daily dose should not exceed 660 mg for people under 65 years of age.
If you are over age 65, the recommended dose is naproxen sodium 220 mg taken by mouth every 12 hours as needed. The daily dose should not exceed 440 mg for people over 65 years of age.
These guidelines are effective for relieving pain and reducing fever; however, do not self-medicate for more than 10 days without talking to your healthcare provider.
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