Naproxen sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication used for short-term pain relief. This drug should not be used chronically, or for long periods, due to the adverse effects it can have on the gastrointestinal system such as ulcers and bleeding. Naproxen is available over-the-counter at lower doses in medications. Higher doses of naproxen require a prescription, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Anti-inflammatory
The label "non-steroidal anti-inflammatory" simply means that naproxen sodium is not a steroid drug and does not carry steroid-like side effects. Naproxen works on the immune response to inhibit release of the factors responsible for swelling, thereby decreasing this response. Types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid and gout, cause swelling in the joints and can be treated with naproxen.
Pain Relief
Naproxen sodium is frequently used as an over-the-counter analgesic, or pain reliever. This analgesic works by blocking the histamine release associated with muscle and tissue injuries. Drugs.com suggests that naproxen is used to treat muscle ailments such as menstrual cramping, tendinitis and sprains. Naproxen can be used to treat bone pains as well, such as toothaches.
Fever Reduction
Elevations of body temperature can be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen sodium. Fevers can be cause by ailments such as colds or flu viruses, infections and even the menstrual cycle. The Cleveland Clinic warns, however, that fevers should not be immediately treated with medications unless they are climbing above 102 degrees F in an adult.
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