Naproxen

Anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Naproxen is a anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Naxdom 500. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves migraine, period pain, arthritis and other pain.

How it works

A longer-acting NSAID for arthritis, period pain, gout and muscle injuries; lower heart risk than some NSAIDs.

How to take it

Usually 250 to 500 mg twice a day with or after food.

Common side effects

  • Indigestion
  • Heartburn
  • Headache
  • Drowsiness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Black stools
  • Much less urine
  • Chest pain or breathlessness
  • Severe rash

Be careful

Take after food; risk of stomach bleeding.

Other medicines and interactions

Avoid with other NSAIDs and aspirin; bleeding risk with blood thinners and SSRIs; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid from 20 weeks of pregnancy and ask before earlier use. Short courses may be acceptable while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Naproxen (1)

Naxdom 500

Common questions

What is Naproxen used for?

Relieves migraine, period pain, arthritis and other pain.

How does Naproxen work?

A longer-acting NSAID for arthritis, period pain, gout and muscle injuries; lower heart risk than some NSAIDs.

How should I take Naproxen?

Usually 250 to 500 mg twice a day with or after food.

What are the side effects of Naproxen?

Common: Indigestion, heartburn, headache, drowsiness. Get help straight away for: Black stools, much less urine, chest pain or breathlessness, severe rash.

Does Naproxen interact with other medicines?

Avoid with other NSAIDs and aspirin; bleeding risk with blood thinners and SSRIs; kidney risk with diuretics and ACE inhibitors.

Is Naproxen safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid from 20 weeks of pregnancy and ask before earlier use. Short courses may be acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Naproxen need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Naproxen?

Naxdom 500.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.