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Compare Relafen vs. Naproxen

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

Key takeaways

Nabumetone (Relafen) and naproxen (Naprosyn) are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain and inflammation, but they have some differences. Nabumetone is typically taken once or twice a day, while naproxen is usually taken twice per day. Nabumetone is known to cause fewer stomach-related side effects compared to naproxen, but both medications can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers. Naproxen is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms, whereas nabumetone is only available by prescription. Neither medication is recommended for people with severe heart failure or during late pregnancy. Both medications can cause serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems, but naproxen has a broader range of uses, including treating gout and menstrual cramps.

  • Nabumetone
    Naproxen (Naprosyn)
  • Nabumetone
    Naproxen (Naprosyn)

  • Summary of Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Nabumetone is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works to help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. This can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. Nabumetone is a tablet that you take by mouth typically once per day. The dosage can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you. Side effects can include diarrhea and upset stomach.

    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 Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    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 Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well to help with OA and RA
    •Might have a lower risk of serious stomach issues than some other NSAIDs
    •Typically taken by mouth once per day
    Cons
    •Requires a prescription from a healthcare professional
    •Has many risks, including heart issues, stomach bleeding, and kidney problems
    •Not recommended for people with severe heart failure 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 Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (14%)
    •Indigestion (13%)
    •Stomach pain (12%)
    •Constipation (up to 9%)
    •Gas (up to 9%)
    •Nausea (up to 9%)
    •Dizziness (up to 9%)
    •Headache (up to 9%)
    •Itching (up to 9%)
    •Rash (up to 9%)
    •Ringing in the ears (up to 9%)
    •Swelling (up to 9%)
    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 Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
    •Risk of heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure
    •Swelling and risk of heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Risk of general bleeding and anemia
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Not safe to take while pregnant
    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 Relafen vs. Naproxen

    Learn more about Nabumetone
    Learn more about Naproxen

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