What is the proper way to take naproxen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)?

How to Take Naproxen

Naproxen should be taken at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible, with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. 1

Proper Dosing Instructions

General Dosing Guidelines

• Take with a full glass of water
• Take with food or milk to minimize stomach irritation
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed
• Do not exceed recommended doses

Specific Dosing by Condition

• Pain/Inflammation: 250-500 mg twice daily 1
• Acute Pain: 500 mg initially, then 250 mg every 6-8 hours as needed 1
• Migraine: 500-825 mg at onset (though effectiveness is limited) 2
• Osteoarthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis: 250-500 mg twice daily 1
• Acute Gout: 750 mg initially, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until attack subsides 1

Important Safety Considerations

Cardiovascular Risk

• Use particular caution if you have cardiovascular disease
• Naproxen appears to have a lower cardiovascular risk profile compared to other NSAIDs with higher COX-2 selectivity 3
• For patients with heart disease, naproxen should only be used if initial therapy with acetaminophen, small doses of narcotics, or non-acetylated salicylates is insufficient 3

Gastrointestinal Risk

• Take with food to minimize GI irritation
• Consider a proton pump inhibitor if you have risk factors for GI bleeding 3
• Avoid alcohol while taking naproxen

Drug Interactions

• Important: Unlike ibuprofen, naproxen does not appear to interfere with the cardioprotective effects of aspirin 3
• Do not take with other NSAIDs
• Use caution if taking blood thinners, corticosteroids, or certain blood pressure medications

Special Populations

Elderly Patients

• Lower doses may be required
• Use the lowest effective dose as elderly patients have increased unbound plasma fraction of naproxen 1

Renal Impairment

• Not recommended for patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) 1

Hepatic Impairment

• Lower doses may be required 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Taking on an empty stomach - This significantly increases risk of gastrointestinal side effects
2. Exceeding recommended doses - Higher doses increase risk without proportionally increasing benefit
3. Extended use without medical supervision - Long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider
4. Ignoring warning signs - Stop taking and seek medical attention if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, slurred speech, black/tarry stools, or severe stomach pain

Naproxen is available in both prescription (375 mg, 500 mg) and over-the-counter forms (220 mg naproxen sodium, equivalent to 200 mg naproxen) 3. The over-the-counter dose is lower than prescription strength and may require more frequent dosing for adequate pain relief.