Can Naproxen Cause Mouth Ulcers? Understanding this Possible Side Effect

October 9, 2025 •

3 min read

While commonly used for pain and inflammation, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen have a documented link to oral health issues. Yes, it is possible that can naproxen cause mouth ulcers? in some individuals, though it is considered a less common side effect than typical gastrointestinal problems.

Quick Summary

Naproxen, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been linked to the occurrence of oral ulcers in some cases, though the risk is relatively low. This side effect is more probable with high doses or long-term use, and is related to the drug's impact on mucous membranes. Other medications can also induce oral ulcers, and a healthcare consultation is necessary if this issue arises.

Key Points

Possible Side Effect: Naproxen can potentially cause mouth ulcers, although it is a less common side effect than gastric irritation.
Mechanism of Action: The anti-inflammatory effect of naproxen can inhibit protective prostaglandins, which may weaken the oral mucosal lining and lead to ulcers.
Increased Risk Factors: The risk is higher with long-term use, higher doses, advanced age, or a history of gastrointestinal problems.
Other Causes: Numerous other factors, including other medications, infections, and underlying medical conditions, can also cause oral ulcers.
Action Plan: If you suspect naproxen is the cause, consult a healthcare provider. Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
Symptom Management: Treatment for medication-induced oral ulcers involves managing symptoms with topical gels or mouthwashes and adjusting the medication under a doctor's supervision.
Home Care Remedies: Simple home care, such as saltwater rinses and avoiding irritants, can help soothe the ulcers.

The Link Between Naproxen and Oral Ulcers

Naproxen, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. Although more common side effects involve the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as stomach upset and ulcers, oral ulceration is a known but less frequent possibility with naproxen and other NSAIDs.

The Mechanism Behind Drug-Induced Ulcers

Naproxen works by inhibiting COX enzymes, which are involved in inflammation and pain but also in protecting mucous membranes throughout the digestive system, including the mouth. By reducing protective prostaglandins, naproxen can make the oral mucosa more vulnerable, potentially leading to ulcers. A case study supports this, showing oral ulcers worsening with naproxen and improving after stopping the medication.

Recognizing the Symptoms and Risk Factors

Individuals taking naproxen, particularly long-term or at high doses, should be aware of the signs of oral ulcers.

Common Symptoms of Oral Ulcers Caused by Medications

Symptoms can include painful sores on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or palate. These ulcers are typically round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a red border, and may bleed. Medication-induced ulcers can also take longer to heal.

Who is at Risk?

Risk factors for developing oral ulcers from naproxen include long-term or high-dose use, older age, a history of GI problems, and taking certain other medications. Incorrect use, such as letting a pill dissolve in the mouth, can also cause localized irritation and ulceration.

Naproxen vs. Other NSAIDs and Causes of Mouth Ulcers

It's helpful to compare naproxen to other NSAIDs and consider other potential causes of mouth ulcers.


Feature	Naproxen (Aleve)	Ibuprofen (Advil)	Other NSAIDs (e.g., Aspirin)
Half-Life	Long-acting, 12-17 hours	Short-acting, 1.8-2.5 hours	Variable
Frequency of Dosing	2-3 times daily	Every 4-6 hours	Variable
Gastrointestinal Risk	Higher risk compared to ibuprofen, especially for long-term use	Lower risk compared to naproxen	Variable, all carry risk
Oral Ulcer Risk	Documented, albeit less common	Also a known potential cause, part of the NSAID class	A possibility for any NSAID

Other Causes of Oral Ulcers

Besides NSAIDs, numerous other factors can cause mouth ulcers, such as other medications (including some antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs), infections like herpes simplex, nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions (like Crohn's disease), and physical trauma.

What to Do If You Suspect Naproxen is Causing Mouth Ulcers

If you develop persistent mouth ulcers while on naproxen, consult your healthcare provider.

Steps to take:

Contact your doctor to discuss your symptoms and potential link to naproxen.
Your doctor may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication.
Symptom management may include over-the-counter or prescription topical treatments or mouthwashes.

Home care tips:

Rinse with warm salt water.
Avoid irritating foods and drinks.
Maintain good oral hygiene with a soft toothbrush.
A baking soda paste may help relieve pain.

Conclusion

While not as common as gastric issues, naproxen and other NSAIDs can cause mouth ulcers by reducing the protective lining of the oral mucosa. Increased risk is associated with long-term use, higher doses, age, and a history of GI problems. If mouth ulcers occur while taking naproxen, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, as many other factors can be responsible. A doctor can help confirm the cause and recommend appropriate management, potentially involving medication adjustments and topical treatments to aid healing and relieve discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, mouth ulcers are not considered a common side effect of naproxen. The more frequent side effects are gastrointestinal, such as heartburn and stomach irritation. However, oral ulcers are a documented, though less common, possibility.

Naproxen, like other NSAIDs, inhibits the production of prostaglandins. While this reduces inflammation, it can also compromise the protective mucous lining in the digestive system, including the oral cavity, making it more susceptible to ulceration.

You should consult your prescribing physician. They can assess if the medication is the cause and determine the best course of action, which may include adjusting the dosage, switching to an alternative medication, or prescribing treatment for the ulcers.

Yes, ibuprofen is also an NSAID and can similarly cause mouth ulcers, though naproxen is generally considered to have a slightly higher risk for overall GI side effects, especially with long-term use.

To relieve the pain, you can use warm saltwater rinses, avoid irritating foods and drinks, and apply over-the-counter topical anesthetics. For more severe cases, a doctor might prescribe a medicated mouthwash or topical steroid gel.

Yes, factors such as long-term use, high dosages, advanced age, and a prior history of stomach ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems can increase the risk of oral ulceration from naproxen.

Yes, many other medications, including certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and immunosuppressants, are known to cause oral ulcers. It's important to rule out other possible causes with a medical professional.

In many documented cases, ulcers caused by naproxen have healed after the medication was stopped or the dosage was reduced. However, you should only make this change under the guidance of a healthcare professional.