Naproxen vs. Ibuprofen: Know the Difference

By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023

Naproxen and Ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but Naproxen lasts longer and requires fewer doses, while Ibuprofen acts faster.

Naproxen vs. Ibuprofen

Key Differences

Naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is known for its extended duration of action, often requiring fewer doses compared to Ibuprofen, another NSAID. Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is recognized for its rapid onset of action, making it a go-to for quick relief.

Dec 08, 2023

Regarding side effects, Naproxen may pose a slightly higher risk for cardiovascular issues in long-term use compared to Ibuprofen. However, Ibuprofen, while generally safer for short-term use, can still pose risks, particularly in higher doses or prolonged use.

Dec 08, 2023

In pain management, Naproxen is often preferred for conditions requiring sustained relief, such as arthritis, due to its longer-lasting effects. Ibuprofen, being faster-acting, is frequently chosen for acute pain like headaches or dental pain.

Dec 08, 2023

For children, Ibuprofen is often the preferred choice due to its availability in pediatric formulations and its safety profile. Naproxen, while effective, is typically recommended for adults and older children.

Dec 08, 2023

When it comes to prescription strength, Naproxen is available in higher doses, which can be advantageous for severe pain management. Ibuprofen, while available in various strengths, is more commonly used at over-the-counter dosages for mild to moderate pain.

Dec 08, 2023

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Comparison Chart

Part of Speech

Noun (Medication)

Noun (Medication)

Dec 08, 2023

Pronunciation

/nəˈprɒksən/

/ˌaɪbjuːˈproʊfɛn/

Dec 08, 2023

Syllable Count

Three (Nap-rox-en)

Four (I-bu-pro-fen)

Dec 08, 2023

Word Origin

Derived from naphthalene roots

Derived from iso-butyl-phenyl

Dec 08, 2023

Usage in Sentences

Often used as a singular noun

Used both singularly and plurally

Dec 08, 2023

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Naproxen and Ibuprofen Definitions

Naproxen

Naproxen is a pain-relieving medication.

After her surgery, the doctor prescribed Naproxen for pain management.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen reduces fever and eases pain.

Ibuprofen is effective in bringing down high fever.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

Naproxen acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Naproxen helped reduce the inflammation in my sprained ankle.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is often used for dental pain.

My dentist recommended Ibuprofen after my tooth extraction.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

Naproxen is used to treat arthritis symptoms.

My grandmother takes Naproxen daily for her arthritis pain.

Dec 01, 2023

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Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen can be used to treat menstrual cramps.

She uses Ibuprofen to alleviate her menstrual pain.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

Naproxen can provide longer-lasting pain relief compared to other NSAIDs.

Naproxen's effects last longer, so I don't need to take it as often.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen comes in various forms, including tablets and liquid.

For children, liquid Ibuprofen is easier to administer.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

Naproxen is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms.

You can buy over-the-counter Naproxen at any pharmacy.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a common over-the-counter painkiller.

I took Ibuprofen to relieve my headache.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, C14H14O3, used to treat fever and pain.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, C13H18O2, commonly used for its analgesic and antipyretic properties.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

(pharmacology) A certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes and thereby reduces pain, fever, inflammation, and stiffness.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

(pharmaceutical drug) A synthetic compound used widely as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug.

Dec 01, 2023

Naproxen

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (trade name Naprosyn) used in the treatment of arthritis and musculoskeletal inflammation and moderate pain

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

(rare) To treat with ibuprofen; to administer ibuprofen to.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine used to relieve the pain of arthritis and as an analgesic and antipyretic; Advil and Motrin and Nuprin are trademarks of brands of ibuprofen tablets.

Dec 01, 2023

Ibuprofen

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (trade names Advil and Motrin and Nuprin) used to relieve the pain of arthritis and as an analgesic and antipyretic

Dec 01, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Can Naproxen be used for headaches?

Yes, it's effective for headaches, although not the first choice.

Dec 08, 2023

What is Naproxen?

An NSAID used for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and fever reduction.

Dec 08, 2023

What is Ibuprofen?

A widely-used NSAID for pain relief, reducing inflammation, and fever.

Dec 08, 2023

What are the side effects of Ibuprofen?

Potential side effects include stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, and dizziness.

Dec 08, 2023

How does Ibuprofen work?

It operates by blocking the production of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain.

Dec 08, 2023

What are the side effects of Naproxen?

Side effects can include stomach upset, heartburn, drowsiness, and headache.

Dec 08, 2023

How long does Naproxen last?

Its effects can last 8 to 12 hours.

Dec 08, 2023

How does Naproxen work?

It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Dec 08, 2023

Can I take Naproxen for arthritis?

Yes, it's effective for arthritis pain and inflammation.

Dec 08, 2023

Can children take Naproxen?

It's not commonly recommended for children under 12.

Dec 08, 2023

Is Ibuprofen good for headaches?

Yes, it's commonly used for headache relief.

Dec 08, 2023

Is Ibuprofen suitable for arthritis?

Yes, it can relieve arthritis pain but might be less effective for severe cases.

Dec 08, 2023

Is Naproxen safe for long-term use?

Long-term use can increase the risk of heart or stomach problems.

Dec 08, 2023

Can children take Ibuprofen?

Yes, it's safe for children in appropriate doses.

Dec 08, 2023

Is Naproxen stronger than Ibuprofen?

Naproxen is generally longer-lasting, not necessarily stronger.

Dec 08, 2023

Is Ibuprofen safe for long-term use?

Prolonged use may lead to similar risks as Naproxen.

Dec 08, 2023

Can I take Ibuprofen on an empty stomach?

It's advisable to take it with food to reduce stomach irritation.

Dec 08, 2023

How long does Ibuprofen last?

Typically, its effects last for 4 to 6 hours.

Dec 08, 2023

Can I take Naproxen on an empty stomach?

It's best taken with food to avoid stomach upset.

Dec 08, 2023

Can I drink alcohol while taking Naproxen?

It's best to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Dec 08, 2023

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About Author

Written by

Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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