What is Naproxen?

Naproxen is a widely prescribed NSAID that is chemically classified as a propionic acid derivative. It is structurally similar to ibuprofen but differs in its pharmacokinetic profile, with a significantly longer half-life, making it more suitable for longer-lasting symptom control. Naproxen exerts its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects by inhibiting both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are responsible for prostaglandin production, key mediators of inflammation, pain, and fever.

Unlike simple painkillers that only manage pain signals, Naproxen addresses the underlying inflammatory processes, making it especially effective for musculoskeletal and joint-related conditions. Its extended duration of action and reduced dosing frequency make it a preferred choice among GPs and prescribers across the UK, particularly for patients requiring reliable symptom control throughout the day.

Naproxen's effectiveness is backed by decades of clinical data, and it is included in multiple NHS guidelines as a first-line option for managing arthritis, acute injuries, and dysmenorrhoea. It is often co-prescribed with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for long-term use to reduce gastrointestinal risks. Its wide clinical versatility and strong safety profile when monitored correctly make it one of the most trusted NSAIDs in current UK medical practice.

What is Naproxen Used For?

Naproxen is primarily prescribed for the relief of pain and inflammation linked to musculoskeletal and joint-related conditions. It is often used in both acute and chronic clinical settings and provides consistent, long-lasting relief thanks to its extended half-life. Within the UK, prescribers commonly turn to Naproxen when patients need more sustained anti-inflammatory control than shorter-acting NSAIDs can provide.

Common conditions for which Naproxen is prescribed include:

Arthritis: Naproxen is widely used in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis to reduce joint inflammation, ease stiffness, and manage chronic pain associated with daily activities. It enables patients to maintain greater mobility and improved quality of life.

Ankylosing Spondylitis: For individuals living with this chronic inflammatory condition of the spine and pelvis, Naproxen reduces stiffness, alleviates discomfort, and helps improve spinal flexibility over time.

Musculoskeletal Injuries: Naproxen is prescribed for acute sprains, strains, back pain, or shoulder injuries, where inflammation and swelling need to be controlled without constant re-dosing. Its dual analgesic and anti-inflammatory action makes it particularly useful for sports injuries or workplace strains.

Dysmenorrhoea (Menstrual Pain): Naproxen effectively relieves abdominal cramps and uterine spasms associated with painful periods by limiting prostaglandin activity that triggers uterine contractions.

Acute Gout Attacks: During a gout flare-up, Naproxen is used to reduce intense joint inflammation and pain caused by urate crystal deposition, often offering faster relief than general-purpose painkillers.

Dental and Post-Surgical Inflammation: For short-term relief after minor surgeries or dental procedures, Naproxen can be prescribed to reduce pain and swelling in soft tissues.

Patients suffering from any of these conditions may benefit significantly from Naproxen's dual-action capability, which offers both pain relief and control of the underlying inflammation. At 123Meds, Naproxen is recommended for patients whose conditions require steady, long-acting NSAID therapy that doesn't compromise their daily routines. It is particularly suited for individuals who prefer a twice-daily dosage regimen rather than more frequent dosing throughout the day.

How Does Naproxen Work?

Naproxen belongs to the class of medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its therapeutic benefits come from its ability to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are substances the body produces in response to injury or illness. Prostaglandins play a major role in promoting inflammation, pain, swelling, and fever.

When Naproxen is administered, it works by:

Blocking Cyclooxygenase Enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2): These enzymes are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins. Naproxen’s inhibition of COX enzymes prevents the formation of prostaglandins at the site of injury or inflammation.

Reducing Inflammation at the Source: By lowering the prostaglandin concentration, Naproxen reduces swelling and redness, allowing tissues to heal more comfortably.

Alleviating Pain: With fewer prostaglandins, the brain receives fewer pain signals from the affected area. This leads to a marked reduction in both acute and chronic pain.

Lowering Fever (Antipyretic Effect): In cases of infection or post-operative fever, Naproxen can help reduce elevated body temperature by acting on the hypothalamus, the body's temperature regulation centre.

Providing Long-Lasting Relief: With a plasma half-life of approximately 12 to 17 hours, Naproxen allows for sustained relief with only two doses per day, making it particularly convenient for long-term users managing chronic conditions.

This multi-mechanistic action makes Naproxen a powerful choice in both general practice and specialist settings. By treating not only the symptom of pain but also the underlying biological processes that cause inflammation, it supports both immediate relief and longer-term management. Its balance of efficacy and duration makes it ideal for patients who require consistent, long-term pain control without frequent re-dosing.

Can Naproxen Be Purchased Over the Counter?

No. Naproxen 250 mg and 500 mg tablets are Prescription Only Medicines (POM) in the United Kingdom. They are dispensed only following an evaluation by a general practitioner (GP), medical practitioner, or other licensed prescriber who ensures that the benefits of treatment outweigh any potential risks, especially for patients with a history of gastrointestinal or cardiovascular concerns.

Although lower-strength naproxen sodium (such as 220 mg formulations) may be available over the counter in branded products like Feminax Ultra for mild period pain, these are intended for short-term use only and are not interchangeable with prescription Naproxen used for arthritis, gout, or long-term pain conditions.

The prescription process plays a vital role in ensuring the safe and effective use of Naproxen.

Your GP will assess:

• Whether Naproxen is appropriate for your condition
• Your medical history, including stomach ulcers, kidney or liver disease, and heart conditions
• Any potential interactions with current medications
• The need for protective co-treatment, such as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), to safeguard your stomach

In many cases, your GP will also monitor you periodically with blood tests or blood pressure checks, particularly if you are on Naproxen long-term. This regulated approach helps avoid complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding, fluid retention, or cardiovascular risks.

At 123Meds, prescription-strength Naproxen is made available only after your condition is properly reviewed, and all safety precautions are put in place. If you’re unsure whether Naproxen is right for you, a GP consultation will provide tailored advice and, if appropriate, initiate treatment with the correct dose and formulation.

Alternative Medications

If Naproxen is not suitable due to side effects, contraindications, or interactions, your GP or medical practitioner may consider the following UK-prescribed alternatives, depending on your condition:

Alternative NSAIDs:

Ibuprofen: Shorter acting but often well tolerated; available in both OTC and prescription strengths.

Diclofenac: Prescription-only; effective for musculoskeletal pain but carries higher cardiovascular risk.

Etoricoxib: A selective COX-2 inhibitor offering potent anti-inflammatory relief with reduced gastric side effects (requires monitoring).

Non-NSAID Options:

Paracetamol: First-line for mild pain; suitable for patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs.

Codeine or Tramadol: Prescribed for more severe pain but may cause drowsiness and dependency with long-term use.

Corticosteroids (oral or injection): Used in acute inflammatory flares (e.g. in gout or arthritis).

Note: Always consult your GP or medical practitioner before switching or combining medications, especially if you have underlying kidney, liver, or heart conditions.

Dosage Recommendations

For Acute Gout:

Initial Dose: 750 mg, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the flare subsides.

Note: Dosage may vary based on prescriber judgment, age, weight, and kidney function.

How to Take Naproxen

Always take with or after food to minimise stomach irritation.

Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water.

Maintain consistent dosing intervals (e.g., every 12 hours).

Avoid alcohol and smoking, which can increase gastric side effect risk.

If You Miss a Dose

Take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.

Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Storage Guidelines

Store at room temperature (20–25°C).

Keep in original packaging away from moisture and direct heat.

Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Active Ingredient:

Naproxen: 250 mg or 500 mg per film-coated tablet

Inactive Ingredients:

Lactose Monohydrate

Maize Starch

Magnesium Stearate

Povidone

Sodium Starch Glycolate

Purified Talc

Colloidal Anhydrous Silica

Hypromellose

Macrogol

Titanium Dioxide (E171)

Note: Inactive ingredients can vary between manufacturers. If you have allergies or intolerances (e.g., lactose), consult your GP or pharmacist.

Common Side Effects (≥1%):

Gastrointestinal: Nausea, indigestion, stomach cramps, flatulence

Neurological: Headache, dizziness, tiredness

Skin: Rash, itching

Uncommon to Rare Side Effects:

Stomach ulcers or bleeding: Especially with long-term use or in older patients

Fluid retention and oedema

Visual disturbances or tinnitus (ringing in ears)

Serious Side Effects (Rare but Severe):

Gastrointestinal Bleeding or Perforation

Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis): Swelling of the face or throat, breathing difficulty

Liver Damage: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine

Kidney Problems: Unusual fatigue, swelling in legs/ankles

Note: Seek immediate medical help from your GP, NHS111 or A&E to avoid complications if you experience:

Vomiting blood

Black, tarry stools

Chest pain or shortness of breath

Jaundice or signs of liver dysfunction

Severe abdominal pain

Routine check-ups with your GP may be advised if you are taking Naproxen long-term, particularly for those over 65 or with pre-existing conditions.