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Aspirin vs. Naproxen

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Naproxen (Naprosyn) and aspirin are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to relieve pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Aspirin is available over-the-counter and is often used for pain relief, fever reduction, and heart protection in certain adults at low doses (81 mg). Naproxen, on the other hand, is available by prescription (Naprosyn) and over-the-counter (Aleve) and is used to treat conditions like arthritis, gout, and menstrual cramps. Its effects also last longer than other NSAIDs. Both medications can cause stomach issues and should be taken with food to minimize stomach upset. Additionally, naproxen has a higher risk of causing heart problems and high blood pressure. Aspirin isn't recommended for children under 12 or under 18 with fever due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, whereas naproxen can be used in children for certain conditions.

Aspirin

 

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Naproxen

(Naprosyn)

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Summary for Aspirin

Over-the-counter

Aspirin is an over-the-counter NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) that helps lessens inflammation. It's used to help lower fevers and relieve pain from minor injuries in people 12 years of age and older. A lower dose of aspirin is also commonly used for heart protection in certain adults who are at risk of having a heart attack or stroke. This medication most often comes as pills that are taken by mouth. Aspirin side effects include heartburn and stomach upset.

Indications for Aspirin

  • Pain relief from minor aches and pains, such as from headaches, muscle pain, toothache, menstrual cramps, and arthritis
  • Fever
  • Heart protection (lower the risk for heart attack or stroke) in certain adults - low-dose aspirin (81 mg per day) only

Pros and Cons for Aspirin

Pros

  • Doesn't raise risk for heart attacks like other NSAIDs
  • Can help protect the heart in certain adults with or at risk for heart disease when taken at low doses (81 mg per day)
  • Available as a chewable tablet for people who have trouble swallowing pills
  • Available over the counter in a lower-cost, generic form

Cons

  • Has risk for stomach ulcers and bleeding
  • Might worsen asthma symptoms
  • Not recommended for relieving pain or breaking fevers for children 18 years or younger with the flu because of risk of Reye's syndrome
  • Can't be used in children 12 years or younger

Common Side Effects for Aspirin

  • Stomach irritation (e.g., heartburn, stomach upset)

Warnings for Aspirin

  • Stomach irritation, stomach bleeding, and stomach ulcers
  • Kidney problems
  • Reye's syndrome in children
  • Harm to an unborn baby
  • Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
  • Different aspirin strengths available

Summary for Naproxen

Prescription only

Prescription-strength naproxen (Naprosyn) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be taken by adults and children to relieve pain and symptoms of certain conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout. Naproxen (Naprosyn) works by blocking specific proteins that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen (Naprosyn) comes as tablet and liquid suspension that are taken by mouth, typically 2 to 3 times per day. Some common side effects include heartburn, stomach pain, and nausea.

Indications for Naproxen

Pros and Cons for Naproxen

Pros

  • Works well for treating pain and inflammation
  • Effects last longer than other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil)
  • Available as a liquid for people who have a hard time swallowing pills

Cons

  • Can cause stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
  • Not safe to take after 20 weeks of pregnancy
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Naproxen

The following side effects were reported in 3-9% of people in clinical studies:

  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Itchy skin
  • Bruising
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Swelling
  • Shortness of breath

Warnings for Naproxen

  • Stomach bleeding
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding females

Prices with our coupons for Aspirin vs. Naproxen

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Aspirin30 tablets / 81mg
$7.74-
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Naproxen30 tablets / 500mg
$11.42$18.10
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