Chronic Pain Treatment Using Naproxen for Chronic Pain Management By Erica Jacques linkedin Erica Jacques, OT, is a board-certified occupational therapist at a level one trauma center. Learn about our editorial process Erica Jacques Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Shaheen Lakhan, MD, PhD on November 22, 2019 linkedin Shaheen Lakhan, MD, PhD, is an award-winning, board-certified physician-scientist and clinical development specialist. Learn about our Medical Review Board Shaheen Lakhan, MD, PhD on November 22, 2019 Print Naproxen is the generic name for a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation. It is available for over-the-counter purchase, however, stronger prescription formulations are also available for more severe pain. Naproxen is often used to treat pain for such conditions as arthritis, bursitis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendonitis, gout, or menstrual cramps. Naproxen may also be known under the following brand names: AleveAnaproxNaprosynNaprelan AndreyCherkasov / Getty Images How Naproxen Works Naproxen, like other NSAIDs, works to decrease swelling and to inhibit pain sensations. Naproxen reduces hormones that cause inflammation and chronic pain. The exact way it works is not completely understood. However, researchers believe it plays a role in inhibiting a substance called prostaglandin, which is associated with pain. Side Effects Like most painkillers, naproxen may cause certain side effects. These often include: Constipation or diarrheaDizziness or lightheadednessDrowsinessDry mouth or excessive thirstHearing problems or ringing earsSleep problemsMouth soresHoarsenessExcessive tirednessPain in the upper right part of the stomachNauseaYellowing of the skin or eyesFlu-like symptomsBruises or purple blotches under the skinFast heartbeatLoss of appetiteConfusionDifficulty falling asleep or staying asleepBurning or tingling in the arms or legsCold symptomsHearing problems Serious side effects of naproxen use include a rash or hives, visual changes, painful urination or cloudy urine, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing or swelling of the extremities and/or face. If these develop, seek immediate medical attention. Other Warnings Naproxen could interfere or interact with other medicines, particularly other painkillers, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, lithium, diuretics, certain diabetes medications, and some antibiotics. Talk to your doctor about using it properly and safely. Naproxen should not be taken by people with asthma or allergies to other NSAIDs, pregnant women, people with cardiac problems, people with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or those with renal problems. However, talk to your doctor for specific information. Overdose It is possible to overdose on naproxen. Potential signs of a naproxen overdose include: Extreme tiredness, drowsiness or confusionStomach pain and/or nausea, with or without vomitingDifficulty breathingA decrease in urinationDizziness If you take naproxen and notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Keep a List of Your Medications Before having any blood or lab tests, tell your doctor and the lab personnel that you are taking naproxen. Keep a list of all of the medicines (both prescription and nonprescription you are taking, as well as any dietary supplements, vitamins or minerals. You should keep this list with you at all times in case of an emergency. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Medline Plus. Naproxen. National Institutes of Health. Naproxen (naproxen) Suspension.