Naproxen Side Effects

There are a number of side effects that may potentially occur with the use of naproxen. Side effects that were most commonly reported in clinical trials include stomach pain, constipation, and drowsiness. People who use this pain-relief medicine may also have a higher risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Symptoms that may indicate serious naproxen side effects include chest pain, shortness of breath, and slurred speech.

 

Naproxen Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with naproxen (brand names include Aleve®, Naprosyn®, EC-Naprosyn®, Anaprox®, Anaprox® DS, and Naprelan®). However, not everyone who takes the medicine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate naproxen well. When side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(The side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with naproxen. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
 

Common Naproxen Side Effects

Naproxen has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with thousands of people worldwide having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to those that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common naproxen side effects, occurring in more than 3 percent of people, include:
 
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Itching
  • Unexplained rash
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fluid retention.
     
(Naproxen Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;