naproxen

noun

na·​prox·​en nə-ˈpräk-sən 

: an analgesic and antipyretic NSAID C₁₄H₁₄O₃ often used in the form of its sodium salt

Examples of naproxen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Randomized trials found that ibuprofen caused the biggest spikes in blood pressure, followed by naproxen and then celecoxib. —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 6 Jan. 2026

Some of the most familiar are pain relievers and fever reducers, including acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 22 Dec. 2025

However, this benefit can be better achieved with anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen, that can be taken in conjunction with nasal saline irrigation. —Mary J. Scourboutakos, The Conversation, 14 Nov. 2025

While NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen are generally safe in early pregnancy, the FDA advises against their use after 20 weeks due to risks of kidney issues in the fetus, which can lead to low amniotic fluid. —Cameron Schoppa, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

naphthyl (a derivative of naphthalene) + propionic acid + oxy + -en (as in ibuprofen)

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for naproxen

• alloxan
• digoxin
• dioxan
• dioxin
• thyroxin
• aflatoxin
• antitoxin
• digitoxin
• endotoxin
• exotoxin
• ferredoxin
• mycotoxin

Medical Definition

naproxen

noun

na·​prox·​en nə-ˈpräk-sᵊn 

: an anti-inflammatory analgesic antipyretic drug C₁₄H₁₄O₃ administered especially to treat arthritis often in the form of its sodium salt C₁₄H₁₃NaO₃ see aleve, naprosyn