Key takeaways
Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) and diclofenac are medications that treat pain and inflammation. They’re both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Naproxen is only available orally, while diclofenac is available in several oral and topical (applied to the skin) forms, such as a gel and patch. Naproxen 220 mg tablets are available over the counter (OTC), but higher-dose tablets and other dosage forms are available by prescription only. Diclofenac is prescription only except for an OTC topical gel called Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel. Your naproxen dose depends on what you’re treating and what form you’re using. The same goes for your diclofenac dose. Common naproxen and diclofenac side effects include nausea, heartburn, and swelling. More serious risks include stomach ulcers or bleeding, as well as kidney damage. NSAIDs like these can also raise your risk of a heart attack. Topical diclofenac, however, doesn’t usually have the same risks as oral NSAIDs.
