Naproxen — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Naproxen?
Naproxen is a non-selective NSAID used for pain, inflammation, and fever — with a longer duration of action than ibuprofen. This medication is funded by Pharmac and available over-the-counter at reduced doses in some formulations.
What is Naproxen Used For?
Naproxen is used for musculoskeletal pain (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout flares, back pain, sports injuries), dysmenorrhoea, dental pain, and general analgesia. Its longer half-life allows twice-daily dosing.
How Does Naproxen Work?
Naproxen inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and thereby decreasing pain, inflammation, and fever. Its longer plasma half-life (12–17 hours) allows twice-daily dosing compared to ibuprofen’s three-times-daily schedule.
How to Take Naproxen
250–500 mg twice daily with food. For acute gout: 750 mg initially, then 250 mg every 8 hours. Maximum 1250 mg on day 1, then 1000 mg/day thereafter. Take with food and a full glass of water. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary period.
Common Side Effects of Naproxen
- Gastric upset and dyspepsia
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fluid retention
- Rash
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- GI ulceration and haemorrhage (significant — use PPI prophylaxis in high-risk patients)
- Cardiovascular events (naproxen has a potentially more favourable cardiovascular profile than diclofenac or rofecoxib — but still carries risk)
- Renal impairment
- Bronchospasm in aspirin-sensitive asthma
Drug Interactions
Naproxen may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs (reduced antihypertensive effect and renal risk)
- Methotrexate (reduced excretion)
- Lithium (increased levels)
- SSRIs (additive GI bleeding risk)
- Diuretics (reduced efficacy)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Naproxen (250 mg, 500 mg tablets — Naprosyn® and generics) is funded by Pharmac. Naproxen sodium (Naprogesic® 275 mg) is available OTC. Naproxen is generally preferred over diclofenac in patients with cardiovascular risk due to its relatively more favourable CV profile. Always use with PPI cover in patients over 65 or with GI risk factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does naproxen differ from ibuprofen?
Naproxen has a longer half-life (12–17 hours) allowing twice-daily dosing, compared to ibuprofen (4–6 hours, three-times-daily). Both are non-selective NSAIDs with similar efficacy and side effect profiles. Naproxen may have a slightly more favourable cardiovascular risk profile than some other NSAIDs.
Can I take naproxen and paracetamol together?
Yes — naproxen and paracetamol have different mechanisms and can be safely combined for more effective pain relief. This combination is often recommended by GPs for moderate musculoskeletal pain to minimise the need for either drug at high doses.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: