Naproxen Tablets (250mg & 500mg)

What is Naproxen?

Naproxen tablets are a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, commonly knowns as NSAIDs. It is a short term treatment option for mild to moderate pain and inflammation caused by a number of conditions. 

You can buy Naproxen in lower doses over the counter. 

For more information read our guide to Naproxen, which explains everything you need to know.

What are Naproxen tablets used to treat?

Naproxen 500mg is usually prescribed when over the counter options such as paracetamol have failed to relieve symptoms. It is particularly effective at treating conditions where inflammation is also present.

It is used to treat the below conditions:

• Period pain 
• Arthritis
• Muscle/joint pain
• Back pain
• Gout
• Sprains and strains

Why are Naproxen tablets recommended for pain and inflammation?

Naproxen has been used to treat a variety of pain and inflammation conditions since 1976. It is considered the first-line treatment for gout, musculoskeletal pain, inflammation, swelling, and period pain.

Naproxen has been shown to be very effective at treating a number of painful conditions by blocking the production of hormones that cause pain and inflammation at the source of an injury or infection. It is also considered to be a safer option when compared to stronger painkillers, particularly opioid-based treatments.

How does Naproxen work?

Naproxen works by reducing the hormones in your body that cause pain and inflammation.

Naproxen works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes that help the body produce another natural chemical called prostaglandins. As part of the body’s natural healing process, prostaglandins are responsible for causing pain and inflammation at the source of an injury.

However, this natural healing response by the body can sometimes lead to excessive production of prostaglandins and contribute to unwanted pain and inflammation in certain parts of the body. Excessive production of prostaglandins is directly linked to conditions such as arthritis, painful menstrual cramps, and heavy menstrual bleeding.

By inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, the production of prostaglandins is decreased, as a result; pain and inflammation is also reduced.

Who can take Naproxen?

Naproxen tablets are not suitable for you if:

• You are in the late stages of pregnancy
• You have had bleeding or perforation in your stomach while previously taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• You have severe liver, kidney, or heart problems
• You have ever had, or currently have, any stomach problems, such as an ulcer or bleeding

Can you buy Naproxen tablets over the counter?

You can buy lower doses of Naproxen over the counter. However, Naproxen 500mg is a prescription-only medicine and will need to be prescribed to you by a doctor or pharmacist.

Can you buy Naproxen tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Naproxen 500mg and 250mg tablets online at Medicine Direct. You will be required to complete an online consultation where a doctor, pharmacist or prescriber will assess your condition. If you are looking to buy Naproxen online, you should always ensure that the online pharmacy you are purchasing from is a fully licensed UK regulated pharmacy. 

Naproxen alternatives

A number of alternative painkillers can be bought both on prescription and over the counter. Naproxen can be taken alongside Paracetamol if you require additional pain relief. Paracetamol may be more suitable if you are experiencing a stomach ache or headache.

Ibuprofen is also a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). While it should not be used at the same time as Naproxen, it is able to relieve the same pains as this medicine.

Sources

Can NSAIDs help period pain?

Naproxen in the treatment of acute gout