Naproxen

Naproxen (trade names: Aleve, Naprelan) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used for the relief of mild to moderate pain, reduction of fever, and reduction of inflammation. It is a member of the arylacetic acid family of NSAIDs. Its chemical name is (+)-6-methoxy-α-methyl-2-naphthaleneacetic acid, and its formula is C₁₄H₁₄O₃.

Naproxen is also available as a sodium salt, naproxen sodium, that is more rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Although naproxen typically requires a higher dosage than other NSAIDs — a minimal dose is about 200 mg — it binds very well to albumin and thus achieves a longer half-life in the blood than other drugs, lasting up to 12 hours per dose.

Like other NSAIDs, naproxen is capable of producing disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract. Taking the medication with food may help to alleviate this side-effect, which is the most commonly reported side-effect.

Also like other NSAIDs, naproxen can inhibit the excretion of sodium and lithium. Extreme care must be taken by those who use this drug along with lithium supplements.

Naproxen is also not recommended for use with NSAIDs of the salicylate family (drugs may reduce each other's effects), nor anticoagulants (may increase risk of bleeding.)

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