FAQS

Below we’ve listed some of our most frequently asked questions about naproxen, the main active ingredient in Naprosyn® Pain Relief tablets.

Pack shot of Naprosyn® Pain Relief 250 mg gastro-resistant tablets (Naproxen)

What is naproxen used for? 

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which can be  used to relieve pain in joints and muscles, and reduce swelling (inflammation). Naprosyn® Pain Relief may be used for the short-term relief of muscle and joint pain, including:

  • Sprains and strains
  • Inflammation caused by sporting injuries
  • Lower Back Pain
  • Neck Pain
  • Pain in the wrists or feet

If taking naproxen for strains and sprains, doctors usually recommend waiting 48 hours as it can slow the healing process. You can ask a healthcare professional for more advice on this. 

Naproxen isn’t suitable for everyone, so if you have any allergies or medical conditions, or if you take any other medications, it’s important to let your pharmacist or doctor know. Some of the reasons why you may not be able to take naproxen are listed below, however please note that this list is not exhaustive and you should always check with your healthcare professional.

  • You are allergic (hypersensitive) to naproxen, aspirin or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
  • You have or have ever had stomach or gut ulcers, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines
  • You have asthma, rhinitis (a runny itchy, or blocked nose and sneezing) or lumps in your nose (nasal polyps)
  • You are taking other medicines which could increase the risk of bleeding or other side effects, including other NSAIDs, anticoagulants such as warfarin, antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, oral corticosteroids or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • You have a blood clotting disorder
  • You have a liver, kidney or heart condition
  • You have or have ever had high blood pressure, a stroke or any heart problems
  • You have high cholesterol, diabetes or you smoke
  • You have mixed connective tissue disease or an autoimmune condition such as SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)
  • You have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease 
  • You are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying for a baby

Your pharmacist or doctor will be able to advise on the most appropriate pain relief treatment for you.

Man sat down holding leg in pain.

Can you get naproxen over the counter?

You can now buy Naprosyn® Pain Relief tablets from the pharmacy without a prescription. Naprosyn® Pain Relief contains naproxen and can offer lasting pain relief for acute musculoskeletal conditions, such as back, muscle and joint pain. 

Is naproxen an anti-inflammatory?

Yes, naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which works to reduce inflammation and swelling.  NSAIDs work by blocking the effects of cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes. These enzymes produce prostaglandins which bring about pain and inflammation. So, by blocking them, NSAIDs like naproxen can reduce pain and inflammation.  

Man bending holding his legs in pain.

Can you take naproxen for back pain?

Yes, to ease back pain, taking anti-inflammatory medication such as naproxen is recommended. Back pain is very common and does tend to improve in a few weeks, but taking naproxen, staying active and doing stretches can help to speed up your recovery. If the pain doesn’t improve after a few weeks, make sure to see your GP.  

The dose of Naprosyn® Pain Relief to treat back pain is generally two tablets (500mg) initially and then one tablet (250mg) after six to eight hours, if needed. On the second and third days, one tablet (250mg) should be taken every six to eight hours if needed. The lowest effective dose should be taken for the shortest time necessary to relieve symptoms.. Naprosyn® Pain Relief should not be taken for more than three days unless advised by your healthcare professional.   

Is naproxen addictive?

No, naproxen is not known to be addictive. It should always be taken as advised on the product packaging or by a healthcare professional. 

Woman running in red shorts with leg pain.

Can you take naproxen with paracetamol?

Yes, you may be able to take naproxen with paracetamol but only be for a short period of time. If you feel you need to take additional painkillers alongside Naprosyn, please speak to a healthcare professional. Don’t take naproxen with any other NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen or diclofenac).  Make sure to ask a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about which medications can be taken together. 

Get in touch today

If you have any other questions not featured here, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. Our friendly team is happy to help.

Man sat on bed with back pain.