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.

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.

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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