Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

naproxen sodium codein

Naproxen sodium inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis, while codeine acts as an opioid agonist to provide additional analgesic and antitussive effects.

Naproxen sodium inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes to reduce prostaglandin synthesis, while codeine acts as an opioid agonist to provide additional analgesic and antitussive effects. Used for Moderate to severe acute pain, Chronic pain conditions.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Naproxen sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing inflammation, pain, and fever. Codeine is an opioid analgesic and antitussive that binds to mu opioid receptors in the central nervous system. The combination provides enhanced pain relief through dual mechanisms—peripheral anti-inflammatory action and central opioid analgesia.

Approved indications

• Moderate to severe acute pain
• Chronic pain conditions

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Drowsiness
• Respiratory depression

Key clinical trials

• Evaluation of the Analgesic Efficacy of the Combination of Dexketoprofen + Paracetamol and the Combination of Naproxen Sodium + Codeine in Patients With Acute Dental Pain (PHASE4)
• Efficacy of Naproxen-codeine, Naproxen+Dexamethasone, and Naproxen on Myofascial Pain (PHASE4)
• Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Treatment Trial (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• Evaluation of NaproxenSodium and CodeinePhosphate Combination in Osteoarthritis (PHASE4)
• Efficacy of Intravenous Naproksen Sodium+Codein and Paracetamol+Codein on Postoperative Pain on Postoperative Pain (PHASE4)
• Naproxen Codeine in Arthroscopic Surgery (PHASE4)

Primary sources

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