Naproxen: Uses, Risks, and Alternatives for Pain and Inflammation

When you reach for a pain reliever, naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to reduce pain, swelling, and fever. Also known as Aleve, it’s one of the most widely used NSAID medications in the world. Unlike acetaminophen, which just dulls pain, naproxen goes after the source — inflammation. That’s why it’s often prescribed for arthritis, tendonitis, menstrual cramps, and even gout flare-ups. But it’s not a harmless pill. Every year, thousands end up in emergency rooms because they didn’t realize how harsh naproxen can be on the stomach, kidneys, or heart.

Many people think all painkillers are the same, but ibuprofen, another common NSAID that works similarly but has a shorter duration clears out of your system faster than naproxen, which can last up to 12 hours. That longer window means fewer doses, but also a higher chance of side effects if you take it daily. If you’re on blood pressure meds, have kidney issues, or are over 60, naproxen can raise your risk of heart attack or stroke — even at low doses. And if you’ve ever had a stomach ulcer, your doctor should’ve warned you: naproxen can bring it back. It’s not just about taking the pill — it’s about knowing who it’s safe for. That’s why some people switch to acetaminophen, a non-NSAID pain reliever that doesn’t irritate the stomach or affect blood pressure, even if it doesn’t touch inflammation. Others turn to physical therapy, ice, or topical creams. There’s no one-size-fits-all fix.

What you’ll find below isn’t just a list of articles — it’s a real-world guide to how naproxen fits into the bigger picture of pain management. You’ll see how it stacks up against other NSAIDs like celecoxib, why some doctors avoid prescribing it during pregnancy, how it interacts with blood thinners, and when generic versions are just as good as the brand. You’ll also learn about the hidden risks tied to long-term use, what to do if you miss a dose, and how to spot signs of internal bleeding before it’s too late. This isn’t theory. These are the questions real patients ask, and the answers they need before they swallow another pill.