Aleve (naproxen)

Naproxen Sodium 220mg is a long-acting NSAID that provides up to 12 hours of relief from backaches, arthritis, and muscle pain by reducing inflammation. By inhibiting the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, it effectively blocks the production of prostaglandins—the lipid compounds responsible for signaling pain and promoting inflammatory swelling throughout the body. Unlike shorter-acting NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen’s 12-to-17-hour half-life allows for stable therapeutic levels with just twice-daily dosing, though 2026 clinical guidelines emphasize that it must be taken with a full glass of water and food to mitigate the risk of severe gastric mucosal erosion. As a potent anti-inflammatory, its use in patients over age 60 requires careful supervision due to an increased risk of silent gastrointestinal bleeding and potential interference with aspirin-based heart therapies.