Naproxen belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs. Other members of this class include ibuprofen Motrin indomethacin Indocin nabumetone Relafen and several others. These drugs are used for the management of mild to moderate pain fever and inflammation. They work by reducing the levels of prostaglandins chemicals that are responsible for pain fever and inflammation. Naproxen blocks the enzyme that makes prostaglandins cyclooxygenase resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins. As a consequence inflammation pain and fever are reduced. Naproxen was approved by the FDA in December 1991.

The usual adult dose is 250-500 mg twice daily using regular naproxen tablets. The usual dose for Naprelan controlled release tablets is 750 to 1000 mg given once daily. For EC-Naprosyn the usual dose is 375-500 mg twice daily. Naproxen should be given with food to reduce upset stomach.

The most common side effects from naproxen are rash ringing in the ears headaches dizziness drowsiness abdominal pain nausea diarrhea constipation heartburn fluid retention and shortness of breath. Naproxen also may cause stomach and intestinal bleeding and ulcers. Sometimes stomach ulceration and intestinal bleeding can occur without any abdominal pain. Black tarry stools weakness and dizziness upon standing may be the only signs of the bleeding. People who are allergic to other NSAIDs should not use naproxen.
nervousness
upset stomach
stomach pain or cramps
vomiting
constipation
diarrhea
gas
If you experience any of the following symptoms call your doctor immediately:

bloody vomit
bloody diarrhea or black tarry stools
ringing in the ears
blurred vision
swelling of hands feet ankles or lower legs
skin rash
itching

Naproxen may cause an upset stomach. Take naproxen with food or milk

Naproxen is used for the treatment of mild to moderate pain inflammation and fever.

Room temperature: 15-30°C 59-86°F.

Before taking naproxen

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to naproxen aspirin or other medications for pain or arthritis or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking especially aspirin atenolol Tenormin carteolol Cartrol cyclosporine Neoral Sandimmune diuretics water pills labetalol Normodyne Trandate lithium Eskalith Lithobid medications for arthritis or diabetes methotrexate metoprolol Lopressor nadolol Corgard phenytoin Dilantin probenecid Benemid warfarin Coumadin and vitamins. Do not take aspirin or acetaminophen when using naproxen unless directed to do so by your doctor.
tell your doctor if you smoke or drink large amounts of alcohol and if you have or have ever had liver heart or kidney disease high blood pressure any stomach problems or any other gastrointestinal disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking naproxen call your doctor.
if you are having surgery including dental surgery tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking naproxen.
you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication