Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat back pain caused by muscle strain, inflammation, or arthritis. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling, which helps relieve pain and stiffness and can make movement easier.

One advantage of naproxen is its longer duration of action compared with ibuprofen, so it’s usually taken twice daily rather than every few hours. It can be very effective for inflammatory back pain, but it should be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation, and caution is needed in people with a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or cardiovascular risk.