Naproxen: Uses, Side Effects, Dosing, and Safety
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available over the counter and by prescription. It is used to relieve pain, inflammation, fever, and stiffness from conditions such as arthritis, muscle injuries, menstrual cramps, and gout. Naproxen is not suitable for everyone, so check with a doctor or pharmacist before using it.
Naproxen can help control pain and inflammation, but it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding, kidney problems, heart events, and allergic reactions. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time and ask a doctor or pharmacist for personal advice.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M01AE02
- Generic
- Naproxen
- Class
- nsaid
- Brands
- Aleve, Naprosyn
- Availability
- behind_counter
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 14
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 12
- Routes
- oral, topical
- Forms
- tablet, gel
- Regions
- CN, US, EU, JP
- Monitoring
- gastrointestinal, renal-function, cardiovascular
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; do not use in late pregnancy
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid completely
do not use in third trimester due to risk of premature closure of ductus arteriosus
fetal ultrasound monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
nursing infantminimal adjustment needed
short-term use acceptable; monitor infant for GI symptoms
observe infant for unusual drowsiness or GI disturbances
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly over 65use lowest effective dose for shortest duration
start with 220mg once daily; monitor for GI bleeding, renal function, and cardiovascular events
regular monitoring of renal function, CBC, and GI symptoms
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children 2 12 yearsweight-based dosing required
5-7mg/kg every 8-12 hours; do not exceed 20mg/kg/day
monitor for GI symptoms and renal function with prolonged use
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose; avoid in severe impairment
use with caution; avoid in severe renal impairment (CrCl <30ml/min)
monitor renal function (creatinine, BUN) regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid completely
do not use in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl <30ml/min)
avoid; monitor renal function if use is absolutely necessary
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose if needed
use with caution; may increase risk of hepatotoxicity
regular liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin)
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for Naproxen as both prescription and OTC formulation
Drug class
Drug class information for Naproxen under M01AE02
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses including arthritis, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal pain
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacological mechanism of action
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 22, 2026. · Read our editorial policy