Naproxen is part of the class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Manufactured by German drugmaker Bayer and sold under the brand name Aleve, as well as Roche Palo Altos Naprosyn, naproxen was first sold by prescription in 1976 and was approved for over-the-counter sales in 1994. The popular over-the-counter drug is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis and gout. Amidst drug safety warnings and controversy, naproxen is the latest drug to be added to the list of questionable medicines.