Naproxen

Naproxen is an anti-inflammatory painkiller. It eases pain and swelling in arthritis, gout, back pain and period pain.

Type of medicine

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Also known as

Naprosyn, Feminax Ultra, Vimovo (with esomeprazole)

Comes as

tablets, gastro-resistant tablets, liquid

How you get it

Some forms from a pharmacy without a prescription

What it is used for

Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Gout attacks
Back pain, sprains and strains
Period pain (available from pharmacies for this)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Migraine
Chest wall pain such as costochondritis

How it works

Naproxen blocks enzymes called COX that make prostaglandins, which cause pain, swelling and fever.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Naproxen can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

indigestion
stomach pain
feeling sick
headache
feeling dizzy or sleepy

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

black or bloody poo, or vomiting blood
chest pain or signs of a heart attack or stroke. Call 999
swollen ankles, breathlessness or peeing less
yellowing of the skin or eyes

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Use the lowest dose for the shortest time.
Your doctor may give you a stomach-protecting medicine such as omeprazole.
Not suitable with other anti-inflammatory painkillers or with blood thinners unless your doctor advises it.
It can make asthma worse in some people.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.