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NSAID (Non-selective COX Inhibitor)

Naproxen

Brand names: Naprosyn, Anaprox, Feminax Ultra

Used in: Headache & Migraine Gout

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain and inflammation, including musculoskeletal conditions and acute gout.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

US labelling (FDA)

Reference — US labelling, may differ from UK

Use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. ( 2.1 ) Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis Naproxen tablets 250 mg (one-half tablet) 500 mg twice daily Naproxen sodium tablets 275 mg (one-half tablet) 550 mg twice daily The dose may be adjusted up or down depending on the clinical response of the patient. In patients who tolerate lower doses well, the dose may be increased to naproxen 1500 mg/ day for up to 6 months. Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Naproxen tablets may not allow for the flexible dose titration needed in pediatric patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. A …

Source: US FDA prescribing information (openFDA / DailyMed), label dated 2026-01-29. Accessed 2026-06-12. US dosing and indications can differ from UK practice — use UK sources for prescribing decisions.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It non-selectively inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis.

Prescribing in practice

  • Among the NSAIDs it has a relatively favourable cardiovascular risk profile, but the usual gastrointestinal and renal cautions still apply.
  • Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, with gastroprotection in at-risk patients; avoid in significant renal impairment, heart failure and active peptic ulceration.
  • It adds to bleeding risk with anticoagulants and antiplatelets.

Monitoring

With longer use or in at-risk patients monitor renal function and blood pressure; review gastrointestinal symptoms.

Counselling the patient

  • Take it with or after food.
  • Report indigestion, black stools or reduced urine output.
  • Avoid combining it with other NSAIDs.

Evidence & guidelines

An effective NSAID often preferred where cardiovascular risk is a concern, at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

Reference: NICE CG177 (Osteoarthritis); NICE NG146 (Rheumatoid Arthritis); Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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