Naproxen Uses

Naproxen is an over-the-counter and prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat mild to moderate pain such as toothache, headache, migraine, back pain, body pain, and menstrual pain. It is also used to treat pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and gouty arthritis. Naproxen can also help to relieve symptoms of inflammatory conditions like tendonitis and bursitis.

There may be other uses of this medicine — your healthcare professional or pharmacist can provide medical advice and give you more naproxen drug information.

Naproxen Mechanism of Action

Naproxen works by blocking the body’s production of enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2, which are required for the formation of prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins are certain natural substances that play a key role in inflammation, pain, and fever  

Naproxen Doses

Naproxen is available as regular tablets, extended-release tablets, delayed-release tablets, and an oral suspension. The over-the-counter (OTC) naproxen dose is 220 mg. Prescription-strength naproxen is available at doses of 250 mg, 275 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg, 550 mg, and 750 mg

OTC Naproxen Dosing

Adults and children over the age of 12 years can take one 220 mg tablet by mouth 2-3 times a day as needed. The maximum naproxen dose is three tablets (660 mg) in 24 hours. For children under the age of 12, you should contact the child’s doctor to find out the appropriate dose or safer alternatives.

Prescription Naproxen Dosing

• For mild to moderate pain and/or inflammation: First dose 550 mg, followed by 550 mg twice a day or 275 mg 3-4 times a day as needed. The maximum naproxen dose is 1,375 mg in 24 hours.
• For arthritis pain: Naproxen 250 mg to 550 mg twice a day.
• For gout: 750 mg to 825 mg at the start of the attack, followed by 250 mg to 275 mg every 8 hours until symptoms go away.
• For juvenile arthritis: The dose is based on the child’s body weight and is usually 2.5 mL to 7.5 mL of the oral suspension, which contains naproxen 62.5 mg to 187.5 mg twice a day.