Naproxen Dosage: Safe Amounts, Side Effects, and What Works Best

When you need relief from pain or swelling, naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. Also known as Naprosyn, it's one of the most common over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers out there. But taking too much—or too little—can make a big difference. The right naproxen dosage depends on what you’re treating, how long you’ve been using it, and your overall health. For mild pain like headaches or muscle aches, 220 mg every 8 to 12 hours is often enough. For arthritis or more serious inflammation, doctors might prescribe 375 or 500 mg twice a day. Never go over 1,250 mg in a single day unless your doctor says so.

Naproxen side effects, common risks include stomach upset, ulcers, and increased blood pressure. Also known as NSAID-related complications, these aren’t rare—especially if you take it daily for weeks or months. People with kidney problems, heart disease, or a history of stomach bleeding need to be extra careful. Mixing naproxen with alcohol or other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, another popular NSAID often used for similar pain conditions. Also known as Advil or Motrin, it can spike your risk of internal bleeding. That’s why many people switch between naproxen and acetaminophen to avoid stacking NSAIDs. And if you’re on blood thinners or antidepressants, talk to your doctor first—interactions happen more often than you think.

What makes naproxen different from other painkillers? It lasts longer. While ibuprofen wears off in 4 to 6 hours, naproxen can keep working for up to 12. That’s why it’s often preferred for overnight pain or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. But that long duration also means mistakes are riskier. Taking an extra pill because the pain didn’t go away fast enough? That’s how stomach bleeds start. Always stick to the label—or your doctor’s instructions. And if you’ve been using it for more than 10 days without improvement, it’s time to reevaluate. There are better long-term options, like physical therapy, weight management, or even alternative treatments that don’t stress your insides.

Many of the posts below dive into how naproxen stacks up against other pain relievers, what happens when you take it too long, and how to spot early warning signs of damage. You’ll find real-world comparisons with aspirin, acetaminophen, and even newer options. Some stories come from people who thought naproxen was harmless—until it wasn’t. Others show how doctors adjust dosages for older adults or those with kidney issues. This isn’t just about numbers on a bottle. It’s about understanding your body’s limits, knowing when to stop, and choosing what’s safest for you.