Pain Medicine: Naproxen

There are plenty of choices at the pharmacy when you need a painkiller. One option is naproxen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for managing pain, fever, and inflammation. You may know naproxen as: Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan, or Naprosyn. How does it work? Naproxen helps reduce the levels of certain chemicals that cause pain, fever, and inflammation in your body. These chemicals are called prostaglandins. Naproxen works by blocking the enzyme that manufactures prostaglandins, which helps relieve swelling, pain, and fever. Naproxen is available both over the counter and in stronger doses prescribed by your doctor. The usual adult dose falls … Continue reading