Overview

Naproxen (nah-PROK-sin) is a white to off-white odorless crystalline solid sold under a variety of commercial names, including Aleve®, Anaprox®, Bonyl®, Calosen®, Diocodal®, Naprosyn®, Naprelan®, Proxen®, and Veradol®. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used as an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever-reducing compound). The compound is also available as a sodium salt, which is more readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are compounds used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation without the use of steroids (thus, nonsteroidal) by inhibiting the action of an enzyme needed to produce these results in the body. Other examples of NSAIDs are aspirin, ibuprofen, and prednisone.

Key Facts

Other Names:

(S)-6-methoxy-α-methyl-2-naphthaleneacetic acid; d-2-(6-methoxy-2-naphthyl)-propionic acid

Formula:

C₁₄H₁₄O₃

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Carboxylic acid (organic)

State:

Solid

Molecular Weight:

230.26 g/mol

Melting Point:

155°C (311°F)

Boiling Point: