how long does it take naproxen to work

Naproxen typically starts to relieve pain within about 30 minutes to 1 hour after a dose, and you might notice stronger relief within 1–2 hours. For many people, the full anti-inflammatory effect, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis, may take several days to a couple of weeks of regular use to become evident, with peak anti-inflammatory benefits often taking longer. Always follow the dosing instructions on the label or from a healthcare provider, and avoid taking more than directed, as higher doses can increase the risk of side effects. If there’s no meaningful improvement after a few days of regular use, or if you experience concerning side effects, contact a healthcare professional.