What Is Naproxen Used For?

Function

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  Naproxen is used to help several symptoms including pain, menstrual cramps, fever, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation, osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis. People also have used it for other symptoms including non-menstrual cramps, headaches and dizziness.
  
  

Types

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  Naproxen can be bought in its pure form or as a mixture and marketed under different names. These names are Naprelan, Proxen, Anaprox, Naprogesic, Naprosyn, Miranax, Synflex and Aleve. Aleve is the commonly available pain medicine that is geared toward everyday pain.
  
  

History

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  Naproxen was introduced as Naprosyn in 1976. It was purely a prescription drug, and then elements of that drug were introduced as Anaprox in 1980. Anaprox contains naproxen sodium and is not just fully naproxen. Aleve, the first over-the-counter form of the drug, was put onto store shelves in 1994.
  
  

Warning

• The use of Naproxen for long periods could increase side effects, including the risk of heart attack and stroke. Other concerns with the pill lie in the stomach, because Naproxen can cause stomach bleeding and in some cases even put holes in your stomach. You should see a doctor or go to the emergency room if extreme stomach or chest pain occurs from using Naproxen.
  
  

Considerations

• For menstrual cramps, you could take aspirin, ibuprofen and name brands like Midol. For arthritis, there are over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol, Datril Extra Strength and Tempra. You should contact your doctor before taking any medication, including Naproxen.