What is the Difference Between Naproxen and Ibuprofen?

Naproxen and ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for pain relief and anti-inflammatory purposes. However, there are some differences between the two medications:

1. Length of action: Naproxen is a long-acting NSAID, with pain relief lasting for 8-12 hours, while ibuprofen is a short-acting NSAID, with pain relief lasting for 4-6 hours. This means you don't have to take as much naproxen to ease your symptoms and find pain relief.
2. Effectiveness: A dose of 440mg naproxen is approximately equivalent to a dose of 400mg ibuprofen. Both medications are effective in relieving pain and reducing inflammation, but naproxen might be more effective in certain situations due to its longer duration of action.
3. Side effects: Naproxen is more likely than ibuprofen to cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects because it is longer acting. Both medications carry risks of stomach issues, so it is advisable to take them with or after food to reduce the risk of GI side effects.
4. Cardiovascular risks: Naproxen might carry a lower risk of heart problems compared to ibuprofen.
5. Approval for children: Ibuprofen is considered the most appropriate NSAID for children due to its relatively quick onset of action.

Both naproxen and ibuprofen should only be taken at their lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time to minimize the risk of side effects. Doubling up on NSAIDs (taking naproxen and ibuprofen at the same time) is unnecessary and should be avoided, as it increases the risk of both GI and cardiovascular side effects. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications.

Comparative Table: Naproxen vs Ibuprofen

Here is a table comparing the differences between Naproxen and Ibuprofen:

Both Naproxen and Ibuprofen are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. However, they have some differences, such as duration and strength. Naproxen is a long-acting NSAID, while Ibuprofen is a short-acting one. Due to its longer duration, Naproxen is more likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects compared to Ibuprofen. In terms of effectiveness, a dose of 440mg Naproxen is approximately equivalent to a dose of 400mg Ibuprofen.