What is the brand name for Naproxen?
The brand name for Naproxen is Naprosyn.
PTCE Top 200 · #103
Naproxen
Naprosyn
Naproxen is the generic name for the brand-name drug Naprosyn. It is a nsaid used to treat pain, inflammation. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Naproxen ranks #103 and is one of the most frequently tested pain/inflammation medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Naproxen |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Naprosyn |
| Drug class | NSAID |
| Class group | Pain/Inflammation |
| Common use | pain, inflammation |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Both prescription and OTC |
What is Naproxen used for?
NSAID used to relieve pain and inflammation (e.g., arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, gout flares, tendinitis/bursitis) and for dysmenorrhea.
What drug class is Naproxen?
Naproxen is a NSAID in the Pain/Inflammation group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Naproxen
- arrow_rightHeartburn/dyspepsia
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightEdema
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAnticoagulants/antiplatelets/SSRIs and other NSAIDs ↑ bleeding/GI bleed risk
- arrow_rightACE inhibitors/ARBs/diuretics: ↓ BP control and ↑ renal impairment risk ("triple whammy")
- arrow_rightLithium and methotrexate levels may increase (toxicity risk)
- arrow_rightAvoid around CABG surgery; caution with CV disease
Is Naproxen a controlled substance?
No. Naproxen is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS — NSAIDs increase risk of MI/stroke and GI bleeding/ulcer/perforation.
How to remember Naproxen (PTCE mnemonic)
NAPRO-syn is the NAP-friendly NSAID — naproxen is BID (12-hr). Lowest CV risk among NSAIDs, highest GI risk; OTC at 220mg, max 1500mg/day.
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PTCE exam tip
Naproxen is the twice-daily NSAID (12-hour dosing, vs more frequent ibuprofen) — same GI-bleed and cardiovascular class warnings; OTC as Aleve.
Naproxen FAQ
What is Naproxen used for?
Naproxen is used to treat pain, inflammation. NSAID used to relieve pain and inflammation (e.g., arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, gout flares, tendinitis/bursitis) and for dysmenorrhea.
What drug class is Naproxen?
Naproxen is a NSAID (Pain/Inflammation group).
Is Naproxen a controlled substance?
No. Naproxen is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group
Drill Naproxen the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).