Understanding What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Naproxen?

October 10, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 30 million Americans use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen for pain and inflammation relief. However, understanding what are the most common side effects of naproxen is crucial for safe use, as these can range from minor digestive upset to serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, especially with long-term treatment.

Quick Summary

Naproxen side effects frequently involve gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn and nausea, along with headaches and dizziness. More serious adverse effects, including stomach ulcers, bleeding, and increased cardiovascular risks like heart attack and stroke, are also possible, particularly with prolonged use or in high-risk individuals.

Key Points

Gastrointestinal Distress Is Common: Common side effects include indigestion, nausea, stomach pain, and heartburn, which can be reduced by taking naproxen with food.
Serious GI Risks Exist: Long-term or high-dose naproxen increases the risk of serious GI issues like ulcers and bleeding.
Cardiovascular Health is a Concern: Naproxen can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in those with pre-existing heart disease.
Fluid Retention is a Potential Side Effect: Naproxen can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling and increased blood pressure.
Kidney and Liver Function Can Be Affected: Prolonged use can lead to kidney damage or, less commonly, severe liver damage; individuals with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk.
Use Safely with Caution: Minimize risks by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration and avoiding combinations with other NSAIDs or alcohol.

Common Side Effects of Naproxen

For most individuals, the side effects experienced with naproxen are mild and often manageable. Taking the medication with food or milk can significantly reduce the risk of digestive irritation. Common side effects include heartburn, indigestion, nausea, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and swelling (edema) in the hands, feet, or ankles. If these symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

Serious Health Risks Associated with Naproxen

While mild side effects are common, naproxen and other NSAIDs carry a risk of severe and potentially life-threatening adverse events, prompting the FDA to issue a "Black Box Warning".

Gastrointestinal (GI) Bleeding and Ulcers

Naproxen can irritate the GI lining, leading to ulcers, bleeding, and perforation, which can be fatal and may occur without warning. Risk factors include older age, history of ulcers or bleeding, and high-dose or long-term use. Signs of serious GI bleeding include bloody or black, tarry stools, or vomiting blood.

Cardiovascular (CV) Risks

NSAIDs increase the risk of serious CV events like heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk rises with prolonged use and in those with pre-existing heart conditions. Naproxen can also cause fluid retention, potentially increasing blood pressure or worsening heart failure. Individuals with CV disease should use naproxen cautiously under medical supervision.

Renal and Hepatic Effects

Naproxen can impair kidney function by affecting blood flow, potentially causing damage with high-dose or long-term use. Symptoms of kidney issues include decreased urination, edema, and fatigue. Rarely, naproxen can cause severe liver damage; jaundice may indicate liver problems.

Minimizing Your Risk of Side Effects

To use naproxen safely, follow these measures:

Take with food: Always take naproxen with a meal, milk, or antacid.
Use the lowest effective dose: Use the lowest dose for the shortest duration needed for relief.
Avoid combining with other medications: Do not take with other NSAIDs or certain antidepressants (SSRIs).
Limit alcohol and smoking: These increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.
Consult your doctor: Inform your provider about all conditions and medications.

Naproxen vs. Ibuprofen: A Side Effect Comparison

Both naproxen and ibuprofen are NSAIDs with similar uses but differ in side effects and duration. The table below provides a comparison.


Feature	Naproxen	Ibuprofen
Duration of Action	Longer-acting, up to 12 hours.	Shorter-acting, around 4-6 hours.
Dosing Frequency	Typically every 8 to 12 hours.	Typically every 4 to 6 hours.
Key Side Effects	Common: GI upset, headache, dizziness, fluid retention. Serious: GI bleeding/ulcers, CV risks.	Common: GI upset, headache, dizziness. Serious: GI bleeding/ulcers, CV risks.
Gastrointestinal Impact	Can be harsh on the stomach; take with food.	Associated with stomach irritation; may be milder for some.
Cardiovascular Impact	Black Box Warning for increased CV risks.	Black Box Warning for increased CV risks.

Conclusion: A Balanced View on Naproxen Safety

Naproxen is an effective treatment for pain and inflammation, but its use requires careful consideration of potential side effects. While many experience only mild digestive discomfort, awareness of severe risks, especially GI and CV health, is crucial. Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest time and taking it with food minimizes risks. Individuals with heart disease, ulcers, or kidney problems should consult a doctor before use. Knowing potential side effects enables informed decisions and prompt medical help if needed. For more details, consult sources like MedlinePlus drug information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take naproxen with food or milk to protect your stomach lining. You can also discuss antacids or other protective medications with your doctor if you have a high risk.

Seek immediate medical help for bloody or black, tarry stools, or if you vomit blood or material resembling coffee grounds.

Yes, naproxen can cause fluid and salt retention, potentially leading to or worsening high blood pressure. Monitor your blood pressure if you have hypertension.

All NSAIDs, including naproxen, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. While some studies suggest naproxen might have a lower risk than certain other NSAIDs, the risk is still present, especially at higher doses and with long-term use. The FDA requires a warning on all non-aspirin NSAIDs about this risk.

Avoid naproxen if you are allergic to it or other NSAIDs. It's generally not recommended for those with a history of stomach ulcers, serious heart conditions (including heart failure), severe kidney or liver failure, or those who have recently had heart bypass surgery.

Potential signs include reduced urination, swelling in feet or ankles (edema), unusual tiredness, nausea, or confusion. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice these symptoms.

Take the missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.