Naproxen

You must not drink any alcohol whilst taking naproxen. This is because alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding caused by naproxen, symptoms of which include black, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. You must seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

Naproxen 500mg is only available as a prescription-only medicine. This means you will have to be prescribed naproxen by your GP, or complete a consultation with one of our prescribers to see if this medicine is right for you. Lower doses of naproxen are available over-the-counter.

Naproxen can cause side effects, but these won't affect everyone who takes it. The most common side effects of naproxen include confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, changes in vision, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness and rashes. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, chest pains, or a high temperature with headache, sickness, sensitivity to light and neck stiffness, you must seek emergency medical attention. For more information on potential side effects of naproxen, refer to the patient information leaflet.

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve pain and inflammation. It can be used to treat many types of pain or swelling, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, period pain, back pain, gout and sprains/strains. It works in a similar way to ibuprofen and aspirin.