Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using naproxen and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug. To prevent stomach upset, take this medication with food, milk, or an antacid.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will usually start you on the short-acting form of this medication and switch you over to this form if it provides the proper dose and if your pain/condition lasts for a long time. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, keep taking this medication as directed by your doctor.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to two weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.