Naproxen: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief. It reduces pain and inflammation associated with several joint and soft tissue conditions, and is also used for painful periods and acute gout. Oral tablets, capsules and a liquid suspension are available; a pharmacist can advise about obtaining an appropriate product in the United Kingdom.

Naproxen is indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also indicated for polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, an inflammatory joint condition affecting children. Other listed uses include tendonitis, which involves inflammation of tendons, and bursitis, which involves inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around joints.

Naproxen is also used for acute gout, general pain and primary dysmenorrhoea, meaning painful periods. These indications concern symptom relief and the management of pain and inflammation.

The label lists oral capsules containing 220 mg, tablets in several strengths including 250 mg, 375 mg and 500 mg, and suspension containing 25 mg/mL or 125 mg/5 mL. The label lists delayed-release tablets containing 375 mg and 500 mg, and extended-release tablets in strengths including 750 mg. The label lists naproxen 250 mg or 500 mg twice daily for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

The label lists a starting dose of naproxen 500 mg for pain, painful periods, acute tendonitis and bursitis, followed by 250 mg every 6 to 8 hours as required, with a total daily limit of 1250 mg. The label lists a starting dose of naproxen 750 mg for acute gout, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the attack has subsided.

Different strengths and formulations are not interchangeable. The label recommends the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals.

Naproxen belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug class. These medicines reduce the activity of enzymes called cyclooxygenases, which help the body produce substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain and inflammation, so reducing their production can relieve these symptoms.

Prostaglandins also help protect the stomach lining and support kidney function. Reducing these protective effects helps explain why this class can cause stomach and kidney problems as well as providing pain relief.

Naproxen can affect the unborn baby's kidneys, reduce amniotic fluid and cause premature closure of a fetal blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus. The label limits dose and duration between about 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy and advises avoiding use at about 30 weeks and later.

Evidence about other risks during early pregnancy is inconclusive. The label does not specify breastfeeding information; discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.

A missed dose may leave pain or inflammation less controlled. For a regular prescribed schedule, usual pharmacy advice is to resume the normal schedule if the next dose is nearly due rather than doubling a dose. The leaflet or a pharmacist can clarify missed-dose guidance for the particular formulation.

The label specifies storage at 20°C to 25°C, with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C. Tablets are packaged in light-resistant bottles and should be kept in well-closed containers to maintain quality.