Naproxen: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you reach for a pain reliever that actually tackles swelling—not just numb the ache—you’re likely holding naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. Also known as Aleve, it’s one of the most trusted over-the-counter options for joint pain, headaches, and menstrual cramps. Unlike acetaminophen, which just dulls pain signals, naproxen goes after the source: inflammation. That’s why it works so well for arthritis, tendonitis, or even a bad sprain.

Naproxen doesn’t work alone. It’s part of a family called NSAIDs, a class of drugs that block enzymes linked to pain and swelling. This group includes ibuprofen, aspirin, and celecoxib. But naproxen stands out because it lasts longer—up to 12 hours per dose—so you don’t have to keep popping pills every few hours. It’s also used off-label for gout flares and migraines, and sometimes prescribed for chronic conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. But here’s the catch: long-term use can irritate your stomach, raise blood pressure, or strain your kidneys. People with heart disease or ulcers need to be extra careful.

What you won’t find in the bottle? A warning about how naproxen interacts with other meds you might be taking. If you’re on blood thinners, antidepressants, or even high blood pressure pills, naproxen can make things worse. That’s why so many posts on this site talk about drug interactions—like how naproxen can mess with kidney function when mixed with diuretics, or how it might make SSRIs harder on your stomach. It’s not just about the pill. It’s about your whole health picture.

You’ll see articles here that dig into real-world side effects—from dizziness and ringing ears to rare but serious skin reactions. Others compare naproxen to other painkillers, showing when it’s better than ibuprofen and when it’s not worth the risk. Some even link it to sexual side effects or mental fog, things most doctors don’t mention unless you ask. This isn’t just a drug guide. It’s a practical map for people who’ve been burned by one-size-fits-all advice and want to know what really works—and what to avoid.

Whether you’re managing arthritis, recovering from an injury, or just trying to get through a bad period without reaching for stronger meds, naproxen can help. But only if you use it right. Below, you’ll find real posts from people who’ve been there—what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they’d known before starting.