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What Is the Difference between Diclofenac and Naproxen?

Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke

Diclofenac and naproxen are two types of medications that belong to a classification of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Drugs that belong to the NSAID category are typically used for relieving pain caused by inflammation. They are thought to work by blocking certain prostaglandins, chemicals naturally produced by the body that cause inflammation. Although diclofenac and naproxen belong to the same drug classification and have many factors in common, they have differences that prevent them from necessarily being used interchangeably.

One difference between these medications is the availability. The most potent versions of both of these drugs are generally available by prescription only. Although it may vary depending on the specific country and its guidelines, a reduced strength version of naproxen may be available over-the-counter to be used for pain relief to reduce tenderness and swelling, while diclofenac is generally a prescription only medication.

Naproxen is more likely than diclofenac to be prescribed for juvenile inflammatory conditions.
Naproxen is more likely than diclofenac to be prescribed for juvenile inflammatory conditions.

Both of the drugs may be recommended for the treatment of pain caused by conditions, such as arthritis, in which the joints become inflamed, bursitis, in which the fluid sac near the shoulder joint is inflamed, and tendinitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the connective tissues of the bone and muscle. Other miscellaneous pain, such as from menstrual cramps, may also be treated with either of the medications. A key variation between diclofenac and naproxen is that naproxen may be more likely than diclofenac to be recommended for the treatment of juvenile inflammatory conditions.

Diclofenac and naproxen may cause stomach and intestinal ulcers if overused.
Diclofenac and naproxen may cause stomach and intestinal ulcers if overused.

The specific forms in which the medications may be available is also another difference between diclofenac and naproxen. Both of the medications are generally produced in forms to be taken orally. Tablets tend to be the most commonly prescribed form for both medications, but a liquid solution may also be available. In addition to the more widely prescribed tablet and liquid varieties, diclofenac is also produced as a powder that is to be mixed with liquid and swallowed as a form of treatment for migraine headaches. While the tablet and liquid forms of these medications are usually advised to be consumed with food, diclofenac powder is considered to be more effective at relieving the pain of migraine headaches if it is taken on an empty stomach.

Diclofenac is typically only available by prescription.
Diclofenac is typically only available by prescription.

If used in in higher dosages than prescribed, diclofenac and naproxen may cause holes, ulcers, and bleeding of the stomach and intestines. Although the medications are similar, it is generally advised to only use one of them at any particular time. Combining the two medications may cause the body to absorb an unsafe amount of the drugs’ active ingredients and cause damage to the stomach and intestines. Signs of stomach or intestinal holes, ulcers, or bleeding include severe abdominal pain, heartburn, or vomit or stool that is dark red or brown. If these symptoms are present, it is typically advised to stop taking the medications and seek medical attention to prevent serious complications.

Discussion Comments

discographer

@SarahGen-- I can't speak for other people, but naproxen was actually easier on my stomach than diclofenac. Diclofenac is a stronger NSAID and can work where naproxen doesn't. But naproxen is safer side-effects wise.

The issue with naproxen is that lower doses are available over the counter and people tend to overuse them. This naturally leads to gastritis and other issues. If used in moderation for short periods of time, naproxen is safe.

SarahGen

@ysmina-- Unfortunately, both diclofenac and naproxen can cause stomach issues, so I can't recommend one to you in that regard.

I suffered from tendinitis for a while and had good results with naproxen. I did not take them for a long time though and my recovery was fast so I didn't have any stomach problems. I know people who have had gastrointestinal problems on naproxen however.

I have heard both good and bad things about naproxen an diclofenac. I think diclofenac works for some people and naproxen works for others. You might want to try one and if it doesn't work, try the other one, with doctor approval and supervision of course.

ysmina

I have both pain and inflammation due to tendinitis. Which medication is better for me -- diclofenac or naproxen?

I do have a sensitive stomach, would I be better off on one than the other?

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    • Naproxen is more likely than diclofenac to be prescribed for juvenile inflammatory conditions.
      By: bst2012
      Naproxen is more likely than diclofenac to be prescribed for juvenile inflammatory conditions.
    • Diclofenac and naproxen may cause stomach and intestinal ulcers if overused.
      By: p6m5
      Diclofenac and naproxen may cause stomach and intestinal ulcers if overused.
    • Diclofenac is typically only available by prescription.
      By: fovito
      Diclofenac is typically only available by prescription.
    • Diclofenac powder is sometimes used to alleviate migraine headaches.
      By: MediablitzImages
      Diclofenac powder is sometimes used to alleviate migraine headaches.
    • Naproxen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate mild to moderate pain caused by inflammation.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Naproxen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate mild to moderate pain caused by inflammation.