Aleve: Uses, Side Effects and Precautions

Aleve is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) that effectively reduces inflammation and alleviates pain caused by various conditions. Here’s everything you need to know:


Aleve Overview

  • Aleve, containing naproxen, targets inflammation-causing hormones in the body, providing relief from pain associated with arthritis, muscle aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache and colds.

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Uses of Aleve

  • Treats minor to moderate pain conditions such as headaches, muscle aches, tendonitis, dental pain, and menstrual cramps.
  • Relieves pain, swelling, and stiffness linked to arthritis, bursitis, and gout attacks.
  • Acts as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) by inhibiting natural substances that induce inflammation.

How to Use Aleve

  • If using over-the-counter, follow package directions; if prescribed, consult the Medication Guide.
  • Take orally with a full glass of water, 2 or 3 times daily. Avoid lying down for 10 minutes post-dosage.
  • Consume with food, milk, or an antacid to prevent stomach upset.
  • Dosage depends on medical condition and response; take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.

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Side Effects of Aleve

  • Common: Belching, bruising, breathing difficulties, indigestion, headaches, itching, skin eruptions, stomach pain, swelling, chest tightness.
  • Less Common: Bloating, dark or tar-like stools, blurred vision, upper abdominal burning, cloudy urine, constipation, decreased urine output, color vision disturbances, double vision, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting.

Precautions WhileTaking Aleve

  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist about allergies to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
  • Disclose medical history, especially asthma, blood disorders, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, and gastrointestinal problems.
  • NSAIDs like naproxen can affect kidney function, especially in dehydrated individuals or those with heart/kidney issues.
  • May cause dizziness; avoid alcohol consumption and activities requiring alertness.
  • Increases risk of stomach bleeding; limit alcohol intake and avoid tobacco use.

Dosage Guidelines for Aleve

  • May interact with aliskiren, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, corticosteroids, lithium, and diuretics.
  • Combined use with anticoagulants like clopidogrel or dabigatran increases bleeding risk.

Missed Dose

  • If a dose is missed, take it promptly unless near the next scheduled dose. Do not double up.

Overdose

  • Seek immediate medical attention if overdose symptoms like fainting or difficulty breathing occur.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature, away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of bathrooms and reach of children.

Aleve vs Advil

Aleve Advil
Aleve is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) that works by lowering hormones in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Advil is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ibuprofen works by lowering hormones in the body that cause inflammation and pain
It is used in the treatment of a variety of pain conditions, including headaches, muscle aches, tendonitis, dental pain, and menstrual cramps. Advil is used to treat pain and inflammation caused by a variety of conditions, including headaches, toothaches, back pain, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and minor injuries
Aleve is prescribed to treat minor aches and pains caused by arthritis, muscular aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache, and the common cold. Advil is prescribed to adults and children over the age of two. Consult a doctor if your child is under the age of two.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are ibuprofen and Aleve the same thing?

Advil (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen) are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They work similarly by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which helps alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

2. Which is stronger, Aleve or ibuprofen?

In terms of efficacy, 440 mg of Aleve (naproxen) is roughly equivalent to 400 mg of ibuprofen. However, the choice between them may depend on how your body responds and the specific condition being treated.

3. Can I take 2 Aleve at once?

You may take two Aleve tablets, caplets, gelcaps, or liquid gels within the first hour for the initial dose. However, do not exceed more than two tablets in a 12-hour period, or more than three tablets in a 24-hour period.

4. Why is Aleve not good for you?

Aleve can cause water retention, which puts additional strain on the heart. This increased strain can raise the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes, particularly at higher doses or with prolonged use.

5. Can you take Aleve every day?

It’s not advisable to take Aleve or any over-the-counter medication on a regular basis without consulting your doctor. Most over-the-counter pain relievers should not be used for more than 10 consecutive days.

6. Is Aleve bad for your kidneys?

Yes, NSAIDs like Aleve (naproxen) can potentially cause kidney damage, especially if used frequently, in high doses, or in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.

7. When should you not take Aleve?

Avoid taking Aleve if you have had allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Additionally, long-term use or high doses of Aleve can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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