What Is the L368 Pill?

If you’ve found a blue oval pill imprinted with “L368”, you’re holding a 220 mg tablet of naproxen sodium—an over‑the‑counter nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for mild to moderate pain. It’s commonly referred to as the L368 blue pill, and it delivers middle‑of‑the‑road pain relief without the addictive risks of opioid pain medications or narcotic painkillers.

While the L368 pill is generally considered safe, overusing it could lead to health risks. For example, you could experience gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular dangers if you take too much of the medication. Additionally, some people may have life-threatening allergic reactions. Even further, you should never mix this medication with drugs or alcohol without consulting a doctor first.

In this article, you will learn:

• What does the L368 pill look like?
• How does the L368 pill work?
• What are the side effects and risks?
• How to use the L368 pill safely

Appearance & Identification

To identify the L368 pill or naproxen, look for the following features:

• Color & Shape: Light blue, oval, approximately 12 mm across.
• Imprint: “L368” on one side, sometimes with a score line on the other

Despite some confusion, L368 naproxen is not a narcotic or opioid; it’s an OTC pain reliever with anti‑inflammatory action.

How Naproxen Works

Naproxen sodium, the active ingredient, inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins, chemicals that drive inflammation and pain. This mechanism makes it effective for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain, gout symptoms, and menstrual cramps.[1]

The effects typically begin within 1–2 hours and can last up to 12 hours, longer‑acting than ibuprofen.[2]

Appropriate Uses for the L368 Blue Oval Pill

The L368 blue pill serves as a versatile remedy for:[2]

• Arthritic pain (including rheumatoid and juvenile idiopathic arthritis)
• Muscle aches, joint pain, bursitis, and back pain
• Menstrual period pain and toothaches
• Tendonitis, gout symptoms, fever, and general inflammation or moderate pain 

Unlike opioid medications, it does not affect the central nervous system and carries no addiction risk, but misuse can still lead to serious health consequences.

Naproxen Blue Pill Dosage Recommendations

Taking more naproxen than you are supposed to can lead to risks. The recommended doses for this medication include:[2]

• Adults: 220 mg every 8–12 hours as needed.
• Maximum: 660 mg per 24 hours (i.e., up to 3 pills), unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider.
• Chronic conditions (like arthritis) may require prescription-strength naproxen (up to 500 mg or more), always under medical supervision.

Always take naproxen with food or water to minimize stomach irritation and help protect the stomach lining.

Common Side Effects & Risks

Even though the L368 blue pill is non‑narcotic, it carries risks, especially with long‑term or high‑dose use:

Gastrointestinal Issues

Naproxen may cause stomach pain, heartburn, or nausea. Even further, long-term use can lead to stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, or severe stomach pain.

You have a heightened risk of experiencing gastrointestinal issues if you have a history of stomach ulcers, take blood thinners, consume alcohol, or are over age 60.

Cardiovascular Risks

Naproxen can elevate blood pressure, cause chest pain, or increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, particularly in those taking blood pressure medications or with existing heart conditions.

Allergic Reactions

If you are allergic to naproxen, possible reactions include skin rashes, hives, facial swelling, blisters, or asthma symptoms.

Other Effects

Unwanted side effects of naproxen may include dizziness, weight gain, kidney or liver damage, and, rarely, low red blood cell count or yellowing skin in serious cases.

Drug Interactions & Precautions to Be Aware of When Taking Naproxen Sodium

You should not combine naproxen with other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin, as this increases risks of stomach bleeding and ulcers. Even further, you should always avoid combining with alcohol, which compounds gastrointestinal risk.

If you’re on blood thinners, anticoagulants, or high blood pressure medications, talk to a pharmacist or healthcare provider before taking naproxen.

In patients with alcohol addiction, autoimmune disease, or those under pain management for chronic conditions, misuse could mask withdrawal symptoms or mislead pain medication regimens.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention

Stop taking naproxen immediately and seek help if you experience:[3]

• Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness or numbness—possible heart attack or stroke.
• Severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, or black stools—suggestive of GI bleeding.
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, or unusual fatigue or weight gain—possible liver issues.
• Allergic reaction symptoms: swelling, rash, hives, and breathing difficulty.
• Persistent chest or muscle pain unexplained by your original condition. If in doubt, seek emergency medical attention right away.

Using the L368 Blue Pill Safely

To use the L368 blue pill safely and effectively:

• Stick strictly to the recommended dosage and duration.
• Take with food or water, avoid alcohol, and monitor for stomach irritation.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you’re managing chronic pain, autoimmune disease, high blood pressure, or using other medications.
• In cases of chronic pain, conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, a pain management plan may involve prescription-strength naproxen or safer long-term alternatives.
• Do not stop suddenly if switching from opioid pain medications—coordinate with your provider to avoid withdrawal symptoms or inadequate pain control.

Get Connected to a Top-Rated Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center

The L368 blue oval pill is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) containing naproxen sodium 220 mg. It provides effective relief for moderate pain, inflammation, muscle aches, arthritis, and menstrual cramps, without the addictive potential of opioid medications.

However, misuse—or combining with alcohol, blood thinners, or other pain relievers—can lead to serious health consequences, including stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, heart attack, or stroke.

If you are suffering from a substance use disorder, New Jersey Addiction Interventions is here to help. We can connect you with a highly-rated drug and alcohol rehab center to ensure you have every tool you need to achieve long-term recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About the L368 Pill

1. Can I take the L368 pill with herbal supplements?

Some herbal supplements—like ginkgo biloba, garlic, and ginseng—can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with naproxen. Others, like St. John’s wort, may interact with prescription medications you’re already taking. Always tell your healthcare provider about any supplements before starting naproxen.

2. Is the L368 pill safe for long-term daily use?

Long-term daily use can increase the risk of gastrointestinal damage, kidney impairment, and cardiovascular events. For chronic conditions, your provider may recommend periodic lab tests to monitor kidney function, liver health, and blood pressure, or may suggest alternative therapies.

3. Can children or teens take the L368 pill?

Over-the-counter naproxen is generally not recommended for children under 12 without medical guidance. Prescription-strength naproxen may be used for conditions like juvenile arthritis, but only under a pediatrician’s supervision.

4. How should I store the L368 pill?

Keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not store it in bathrooms, as humidity can degrade the medication. Always keep it out of reach of children and pets.

5. Can I drive or operate machinery after taking the L368 pill?

While naproxen doesn’t usually impair alertness, it can cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or using heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

6. What should I do if I miss a dose for ongoing treatment?

If you’re using naproxen on a scheduled basis and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose—never double up, as this increases the risk of side effects.

References:

1. Medline Plus: Naproxen
2. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Naproxen Label
3. Up to Date: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) poisoning