Skip to main content

Compare
Naproxen vs. Indocin

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

Key takeaways

Naproxen (Naprosyn) and indomethacin (Indocin) are both NSAIDs used to treat pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Naproxen is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms, while indomethacin requires a prescription. Naproxen can be taken orally as a tablet or liquid suspension, whereas indomethacin is available as a rectal suppository or oral tablet. Naproxen is typically taken 2 to 3 times a day, while indomethacin might need to be used 2 to 4 times a day. Common side effects of both medications include headache, heartburn, and stomach pain. Additionally, neither medication isrecommended after 20 weeks of pregnancy due to risks to the unborn baby. Both medications can cause serious side effects like stomach bleeding and heart problems, so it's important to follow your prescriber's instructions carefully.

Naproxen

(Naprosyn)

Get free coupons

Indomethacin

(Indocin)

Get free coupons

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

Summary for Indocin

Prescription only

Indomethacin (Indocin) suppository is an NSAID that's used to treat different types of arthritis and conditions that cause pain in the shoulder. It helps lower inflammation and relieve pain. As a suppository, it's inserted into the rectum, typically 2 to 4 times a day depending on what condition the medication is being used to treat. Side effects might include headache and stomach upset. Unlike other NSAIDs, indomethacin (Indocin) suppository isn't available over-the-counter and requires a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Indications for Indocin

Pros and Cons for Indocin

Pros

  • Good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills
  • Can treat many different types of arthritis
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Only available in one strength (50 mg), so you might need to use several suppositories if you're taking a high dose
  • Might need to take multiple times per day
  • Not available over-the-counter

Common Side Effects for Indocin

Note: The side effects listed here are for indomethacin capsules. Side effects for the suppositories might differ.

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Stomach upset

Warnings for Indocin

  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney damage and high potassium levels
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Severe asthma attack
  • Worsening of nervous system and mental health problems
  • Harm to unborn babies

Prices with our coupons for Naproxen vs. Indocin

Price Card Drug Icon
Naproxen30 tablets / 500mg
$11.42-
Get free coupons
More Information
Price Card Drug Icon
Indomethacin1 vial / 1mg
--
Get free coupons
More Information

Compare other Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis drugs

Aspirin vs. NaproxenCelebrex vs. NaproxenFeldene vs. NaproxenIbuprofen vs. NaproxenMeloxicam vs. Naproxen
Motrin vs. NaproxenNaproxen vs. Acetaminophen-with-codeineNaproxen vs. ArthrotecNaproxen vs. ClaritinNaproxen vs. DiclofenacNaproxen vs. IndocinNaproxen vs. TylenolRelafen vs. NaproxenVimovo vs. NaproxenDiclofenac vs. LidocaineIbuprofen vs. DiclofenacIbuprofen vs. IndocinIndocin vs. AllopurinolIndocin vs. CelebrexIndocin vs. ColcrysIndocin vs. FeldeneIndocin vs. MeloxicamIndocin vs. MobicIndocin vs. PrednisoneIndocin vs. TylenolLodine vs. DiclofenacMeloxicam vs. DiclofenacMeloxicam vs. IndocinRelafen vs. DiclofenacTylenol vs. Diclofenac

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.