Naproxen: What It Is, How to Use It, and What to Watch For

If you’ve ever needed a strong painkiller that also cuts inflammation, you’ve probably heard of naproxen. It’s the active ingredient in many over‑the‑counter tablets and a prescription option for tougher cases. In plain terms, naproxen belongs to the NSAID family – that’s non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs – which means it blocks the chemicals in your body that cause pain and swelling.

People take naproxen for everything from a throbbing headache to a sore knee after a workout. It’s also a go‑to for menstrual cramps, back pain, and arthritis flare‑ups. Because it works longer than ibuprofen, you usually only need to take it twice a day, which many find convenient.

How to Take Naproxen Safely

First off, read the label or your doctor’s instructions. The typical adult dose for over‑the‑counter naproxen is 220 mg every 8‑12 hours, but you shouldn’t exceed 660 mg in a 24‑hour period unless a doctor says otherwise. If you have a prescription, the doctor may start you at 250 mg twice a day and adjust from there.

Take naproxen with food or milk to protect your stomach. Skipping meals can lead to heartburn, nausea, or even bleeding in severe cases. Swallow the tablets whole – don’t crush or chew them – because breaking them can increase stomach irritation.

Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush out the medication. If you have kidney issues, talk to your doctor before starting naproxen because the drug can stress kidney function.

Avoid mixing naproxen with other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) unless a health professional says it’s okay. Combining them raises the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding. Also, limit alcohol, as it can worsen stomach irritation.

Common Side Effects and Risks

Most people tolerate naproxen well, but you might notice mild stomach upset, headache, or dizziness. If you feel a ringing in your ears or notice dark stools, stop the medication and call a doctor right away – those can be signs of serious problems.

Long‑term use (more than a few weeks) can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure, especially in older adults. If you have a history of heart disease, discuss alternatives with your doctor.

Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Look out for rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing. These require immediate medical attention.

Pregnant women should avoid naproxen, especially in the third trimester, because it can affect the baby’s heart and circulation. Breastfeeding moms should also check with a healthcare provider before using it.

When to see a doctor? If your pain doesn’t improve after a few days, if you need to use naproxen every day for more than two weeks, or if you notice any warning signs like severe stomach pain, blood in stool, or sudden swelling in your legs, schedule a check‑up. Your doctor can suggest a different medication or add a protective drug to shield your stomach.

Bottom line: naproxen can be a fast, effective way to tackle pain and inflammation, but it works best when you follow the dosage guidelines, take it with food, stay hydrated, and watch for side effects. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll know how to use naproxen safely in everyday life.