Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. This is naproxen. It's a type of pain reliever known as an "NSAID". NSAIDS relieve pain and swelling from conditions like arthritis or short-term injuries. The lowest dose of naproxen does not require a prescription. The lowest dose is often used to treat headaches, fevers or menstrual cramps. You should take naproxen exactly as your doctor tells you to. Some patients prefer to take it with food to reduce the risk of minor stomach irritation and nausea. Most patients tolerate this medicine well. As with any medicine, serious side effects could occur. NSAIDs increase the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. You could have a higher risk of these if you take it for a long time, use higher doses, or take it after a recent heart attack. NSAIDs can also cause serious and sudden bleeding in the digestive tract, often in the stomach. This is more likely if you are older than 65, or if you have a history of ulcers or bleeding in the digestive tract. You also have a higher risk if you smoke, drink alcohol, have bleeding problems, or take other medicines -- like prednisone, blood thinners, or medications that treat depression. There are things you can do to help keep this medicine safe for you. First, read the "Medication Guide" for information about these side effects and others. Also, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines, including aspirin, herbal remedies, and vitamins - even if they do not require a prescription. Women must check with their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not take NSAIDs after 20 weeks of pregnancy. For best results with NSAIDS, work with your doctor to use the lowest dose for the shortest time needed. Also, stay hydrated, and ask about checking your own blood pressure.