
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and tendinitis. It is available on prescription as tablets or as a liquid that can be swallowed. While Naproxen is generally considered safe when used as prescribed, there have been reports of it causing muscle pain and other side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation, increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), and severe allergic reactions. It is important to consult a doctor before taking Naproxen to ensure it is safe for your specific condition and to be aware of any potential side effects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muscle pain relief | Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain in muscles. It is effective for conditions where inflammation is a significant factor. |
| Side effects | Confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, changes in vision, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, rashes, gastrointestinal irritation (e.g. heartburn), increased blood pressure, and increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). |
| Contraindications | Do not take naproxen if you have a history of allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Avoid taking naproxen right before or after heart surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG) as it can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. |
| Precautions | Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to control symptoms. Consult a doctor if you are at risk of getting a stomach ulcer, as naproxen may increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears in the gut. Prolonged or heavy use may increase the risk of kidney problems. |
| User experiences | Reviews for naproxen as a treatment for muscle pain are mixed. Some users report positive experiences, with significant relief from pain and improved mobility. Others have experienced side effects such as dizziness, stomach issues, and muscle and joint pain after stopping naproxen. |
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What You'll Learn
- Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain
- Naproxen can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and severe skin reactions
- Side effects include gastrointestinal issues, drowsiness, headaches, abdominal pain, nausea, and more
- Naproxen may increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, tears, and intestinal issues, especially in the elderly
- It is not recommended for those with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs

Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain
Naproxen is typically used to treat pain or inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and tendinitis. It is also used to treat muscle pain, with varying results. Some people report that naproxen effectively relieves their muscle pain, while others find that it does not work for them or even causes muscle pain.
Naproxen has been shown to be effective in treating muscle pain caused by injuries such as a torn shoulder tendon or a popped knee. One person reported that naproxen was the only thing that helped with their muscle, knee, and back pain, and that they had been able to stop wearing a knee bandage. Another person with a torn shoulder tendon found that naproxen provided amazing relief from their agonizing pain. However, one person with a knee injury reported that naproxen made them sick to their stomach, caused them to lose their appetite, and made them dizzy.
While naproxen can be effective in treating muscle pain, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects. The most common side effects include confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, changes in vision, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, and rashes. More rarely, naproxen can cause severe skin reactions, such as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which can lead to death if not treated. It can also increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears in the gut, especially in older adults or those with a history of stomach ulcers. In addition, naproxen may cause anemia, liver damage, and increased blood pressure.
It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking naproxen, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking other medications. Prolonged or heavy use of naproxen can increase the risk of kidney problems and gastrointestinal issues. It is recommended to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed to control your symptoms.
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Naproxen can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and severe skin reactions
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and pain in joints and muscles. It is commonly used to treat pain and inflammation caused by several conditions, including arthritis, gout, menstrual cramps, and muscle pain.
While naproxen is generally safe when used as prescribed, it can cause allergic reactions in some people. These allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and can sometimes be life-threatening. One such severe allergic reaction is anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop taking naproxen and seek medical help immediately.
In addition to anaphylaxis, naproxen can also cause severe skin reactions, such as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). This condition can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical care. Symptoms of TEN include painful red or purple skin that appears burned and peels off, as well as a flat red rash or blisters on the skin, mouth, nose, and genitals. If you develop any skin rash or other signs of a severe skin reaction, discontinue naproxen and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Other allergic reactions to naproxen may include Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), also known as multiorgan hypersensitivity. This reaction can affect multiple parts of the body, including the liver, kidneys, and heart. Symptoms of DRESS can vary but may include a skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, and unusual bruising. As with any allergic reaction, it is important to stop taking naproxen and seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
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Side effects include gastrointestinal issues, drowsiness, headaches, abdominal pain, nausea, and more
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps to reduce inflammation and pain in joints and muscles. It is available on prescription as tablets or liquid. While it is generally safe when used as prescribed, it can cause several side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, drowsiness, headaches, abdominal pain, nausea, and more.
Gastrointestinal irritation, such as heartburn, is a common side effect of naproxen due to its longer action. Taking it with food or milk can help reduce these effects. However, prolonged or heavy use of naproxen can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers, bleeding, and tears (perforation) in the gut. Elderly patients and those with a history of gastrointestinal problems are at a higher risk for these adverse events.
Drowsiness is another possible side effect of naproxen, and it can impact an individual's ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Other central nervous system effects include confusion, dizziness, and tiredness. Some people have also reported experiencing headaches while taking naproxen.
Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are additional side effects that have been associated with naproxen use. These symptoms may indicate more severe issues such as stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. Other serious side effects to look out for include black, tarry stools, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, and yellow skin or eyes.
While naproxen can be effective in treating muscle pain, some individuals have reported experiencing muscle pain or joint pain after stopping the medication. Additionally, there is a risk of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you experience any side effects or have concerns about taking naproxen.
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Naproxen may increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, tears, and intestinal issues, especially in the elderly
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be prescribed as tablets or liquid. It is used to reduce swelling and pain in joints and muscles. While it can be effective, it may also increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, tears, and intestinal issues, especially in the elderly.
Naproxen may increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears in the gut, known as gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events. This risk is higher for individuals who have a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, take high doses of naproxen, are aged 60 or older, have poor health, or have liver disease. These issues can be fatal, and emergency medical attention should be sought if symptoms such as unusual bleeding or bruising, black, tarry stools, or vomiting of blood occur.
Elderly patients, in particular, are at a greater risk of experiencing serious gastrointestinal events. This heightened risk also applies to individuals with a history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking naproxen, especially for those in the elderly demographic or with relevant medical histories.
Additionally, naproxen can cause gastrointestinal irritation, such as heartburn, and increased intestinal issues. Taking it with food or milk can help reduce these side effects. However, prolonged or heavy use of naproxen can further increase the risk of intestinal issues and other gastrointestinal problems like ulcers.
It is important to be vigilant about any potential side effects and to consult a doctor if any adverse reactions occur. Naproxen should always be taken as directed by a healthcare professional, and the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest necessary duration.
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It is not recommended for those with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and tendinitis. It is available on prescription as tablets or as a liquid. While it is effective in reducing inflammation and pain in joints and muscles, it is not recommended for those with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs.
NSAIDs, including naproxen, can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. These reactions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. People who are allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs may be at a higher risk of experiencing an allergic reaction to naproxen. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with a history of aspirin or NSAID allergies to avoid taking naproxen.
Naproxen has been associated with allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening response. Anaphylaxis can cause symptoms such as a rash, itching, hoarseness, trouble breathing, and swelling of the hands, face, or mouth. These symptoms require urgent medical intervention. Individuals with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or NSAIDs are more likely to experience anaphylaxis with naproxen.
In addition to anaphylaxis, naproxen can also trigger other allergic reactions, including Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). DRESS is a multiorgan hypersensitivity reaction that can affect the liver, kidneys, and heart. It is imperative to discontinue the use of naproxen and seek immediate medical assistance if any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur.
Furthermore, naproxen may also increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, especially with long-term use or high doses. This risk is heightened for individuals with cardiovascular disease or associated risk factors. As aspirin and other NSAIDs can also affect cardiovascular health, those with allergies to these substances should refrain from taking naproxen due to the potential for adverse cardiovascular events.
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Frequently asked questions
Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain in joints and muscles. While it is used to treat muscle pain, some users have reported experiencing muscle pain after taking naproxen. However, it is unclear if naproxen was the direct cause of the muscle pain in these cases.
Common side effects of naproxen include confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, changes in vision, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, and rashes. It can also cause gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation.
Yes, naproxen can cause allergic reactions, including a severe type called Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). This can affect multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart. Anaphylaxis, a rare but life-threatening allergic reaction, can also occur.
Naproxen may increase the risk of bleeding, ulcers, and tears in the gut. It can also lead to severe skin reactions, such as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal if untreated. Additionally, naproxen may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
Naproxen typically starts working within an hour of taking a dose. However, for conditions requiring regular use, it may take up to three days to feel its full effects.











































