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Compare Duexis vs. Naprosyn

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

Key takeaways

Ibuprofen / famotidine and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) are both medications used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. They belong to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) class, which helps reduce pain and inflammation. However, ibuprofen / famotidine is a combination medication that also includes famotidine, a histamine H2 antagonist, to help protect against stomach ulcers. Ibuprofen / famotidine is taken as a single tablet three times a day, while naproxen can be taken two to three times a day, depending on the condition being treated. Naproxen is available in both tablet and liquid forms, whereas ibuprofen / famotidine is only available as a tablet. Ibuprofen / famotidine used to be available as brand-name Duexis, but this product was discontinued. Common side effects of ibuprofen / famotidine include headache and nausea, while naproxen can cause heartburn and drowsiness. Both medications can increase the risk of stomach bleeding, especially when taken with other NSAIDs or alcohol. Naproxen is available over-the-counter in lower doses, but ibuprofen / famotidine requires a prescription.

  • Duexis (ibuprofen / famotidine)
    Naproxen (Naprosyn)
  • Duexis (ibuprofen / famotidine)
    Naproxen (Naprosyn)

  • Summary of Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Summary for NSAID / Histamine H2 antagonist
    Prescription only

    Duexis is a prescription medication that contains ibuprofen (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)) and famotidine (a H2 blocker). It's taken by adults to treat osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while also helps protect against stomach ulcer. This medication is taken by mouth three times per day. Side effects include headache, nausea, and high blood pressure. Brand name Duexis has been discontinued; this medication is only available as a generic.

    Summary for NSAID
    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 of Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Indications for
    •Treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults, while lowering the risk of stomach ulcers
    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) (arthritis of the spine)
    •Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (arthritis in children)
    •Tendonitis and bursitis
    •Gout attacks
    •Pain
    •Menstrual cramps

  • Pros and Cons of Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Pros and Const for NSAID / Histamine H2 antagonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Famotidine helps protect against stomach ulcers
    •Can be stored at room temperature
    Cons
    •Taken 3 times a day
    •Can't be crushed and doesn't come as a liquid; not a good choice for people who can't swallow tablets
    •Not safe for people with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or kidney problems
    Pros and Const for NSAID
    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 of Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (6%)
    •Upset stomach or indigestion (5%)
    •Diarrhea (5%)
    •Constipation (4%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (4%)
    Common Side Effects for

    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 of Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach bleeding and ulcers
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure, heart failure, and swelling
    •Kidney damage and high potassium levels
    •Liver problems
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Harm to unborn babies
    •Accidentally taking too much medication
    •Changes in vision
    Common Side Effects for
    •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 Duexis vs. Naprosyn

    Learn more about Duexis
    Learn more about Naproxen

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