Aleve (Naproxen)
In the US, Aleve (naproxen) is a member of the drug class Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and is used to treat Ankylosing Spondylitis, Aseptic Necrosis, Back Pain, Bursitis, Chronic Myofascial Pain, Costochondritis, Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis, Dysautonomia, Fever, Frozen Shoulder, Gout - Acute, Headache, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Muscle Pain, Neck Pain, Osteoarthritis, Pain, Period Pain, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sciatica, Spondylolisthesis and Tendonitis. Generic Name: naproxen. Other Brand Names: EC-Naprosyn, Flanax Pain Reliever, Midol Extended Relief, Naprelan 375, Naprosyn.
Aleve General Product Information
Aleve is used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to arthritis, muscular aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache,and the common cold. Aleve is also used to temporarily reduce fever. Naproxen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Aleve may also be used for purposes not listed here.
Naproxen was patented in 1967, and approved for medical use in the United States in 1976. It is available over the counter and as a generic medication. In 2016, it was the 68th most prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 11 million prescriptions. Aleve medical uses are related to its mechanism of action as an anti-inflammatory compound. Aleve is used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions and symptoms that are due to excessive inflammation, such as pain and fever (naproxen has fever-reducing, or antipyretic, properties in addition to its anti-inflammatory activity). Notably, not all medications that reduce fever are anti-inflammatory compounds (such as paracetamol). Inflammatory sources of pain that may respond to naproxen's anti-inflammatory activity are conditions such as migraine, osteoarthritis, kidney stones, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual cramps, tendinitis, and bursitis. Aleve is used as a "bridge therapy" in medication-overuse headache to slowly take patients off other medications.
Aleve is available as both an immediate release and as an extended release tablet. The extended release formulations (sometimes called "sustained release," or "enteric coated") take longer to take effect than the immediate release formulations, and therefore are less useful when immediate pain relief is desired. Extended release formulations are more useful for the treatment of chronic, or long-lasting, conditions, in which long-term pain relief is desirable.
Aleve Safety and Usage
It is estimated that chronic pain (pain lasting over 3 months) affects more than 100 million Americans. In fact, pain affects more Americans than diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined.
Is Aleve safe? When taken as directed on the label, Aleve is a safe and effective pain reliever. Since its introduction as an over-the-counter product in 1994, Aleve has been used by millions of people as a safe and effective pain reliever. Before use, be sure to read all label directions and warnings.
What are some of Aleve's possible side effects? Common side effects seen with Aleve are abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, heartburn, nausea and lightheadedness. More serious, though rare, effects seen with Aleve include severe allergic reactions. This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. If you have experienced a side effect, you should stop use and consult with your healthcare provider. When taken as directed on the label, Aleve is a safe and effective pain reliever. Since its introduction as an over-the-counter product in 1994, Aleve has been used by millions of people as a safe and effective pain reliever.
Can Aleve cause allergic reactions? Yes. If you have ever had hives, facial swelling, asthma (wheezing), shock, rash, skin reddening or blisters after taking a pain reliever or fever reducer, do not take Aleve. You may have a serious reaction. If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away.
Can Aleve be taken if I have high blood pressure? Your doctor best understands your overall health. Talk with him or her to determine if Aleve is appropriate for you. Aleve can interact with some blood pressure medications, so talk to your doctor to determine whether Aleve is appropriate for you.
Can Aleve be taken with other over-the-counter or prescription medications? If you are taking any other drug, talk to a doctor before use to determine whether Aleve is appropriate for you. Interactions from using 2 drugs at the same time are possible. (Interactions are the effects that result from using 2 drugs at the same time; one may make the other less effective or cause mild to serious side effects.)
Can Aleve be taken with other over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, Tylenol or Motrin? No pain reliever, including Aleve, should be taken while using any of these other products unless you're directed to do so by your doctor. If you are taking aspirin on a daily basis, check with your doctor before using any other pain relief product.
Can I drink alcoholic beverages (wine, beer or liquor) while I'm taking Aleve? This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product.
Should I take Aleve with food or liquid? A full glass of water is required. Take with food or milk if an upset stomach occurs.
Is it okay to take Aleve before or after surgery? Do not use right before or after heart surgery. For other surgeries, discuss with your doctor to get the answer that's right for your needs. Only he or she is best qualified to answer this question.
Is it alright to use Aleve while pregnant or nursing? If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use naproxen sodium during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless specifically directed to do so by a doctor, because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.
Can I take Aleve if I have diabetes? Speak with your doctor before adding any drug to your current medication(s).
The package says my Aleve has expired - can I still use it? It is not recommended to use any over-the-counter product beyond the labeled expiration date. Like all drugs, Aleve can deteriorate over time and not be as effective once it is past its expiration.
Can Aleve be chewed, crushed, cut in half? While we recommend that the product be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, you can chew or crush the tablet or caplet. Regardless of how it is taken, it is recommended that it be taken with a full glass of water. However, the Liquid Gels should not be cut or crushed and should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
Aleve Special Precautions
You should not use Aleve if you have a history of allergic reaction to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Naproxen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term or take high doses, or if you have heart disease. Even people without heart disease or risk factors could have a stroke or heart attack while taking this medicine. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.
Aleve may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using naproxen, especially in older adults. Ask a doctor before giving Aleve to a child younger than 12 years old. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have:
- heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if you smoke
- a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot
- a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding
- asthma
Taking Aleve during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant. Naproxen may interfere with ovulation, causing temporary infertility. Naproxen can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in the nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine. Aleve is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old. Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
What should I avoid while taking Aleve?
Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Avoid taking aspirin unless your doctor tells you to. Ask your doctor before taking any other medication for pain, arthritis, fever, or swelling. Many medicines available over the counter contain aspirin, salicylates, or other medicines similar to naproxen (such as ibuprofen or ketoprofen). Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much of this type of medication. Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Aleve.
Aleve Forms and Doses
Naproxen comes in two forms - either as the base naproxen or as the salt form naproxen sodium. Both the base and salt forms work the same way to relieve pain. There is one difference - naproxen base on a milligram-per-milligram basis is slightly stronger than naproxen sodium. Here's how it works out - 220, 275, or 550 mg of naproxen sodium equals 200, 250, and 500 mg of naproxen, respectively. However, you don't need to worry about any conversion as these slight differences are already taken into account when doses are determined.
Available forms:
- tablets 220mg (OTC), 250mg, 275mg, 375mg, 500mg, 550mg.
- tablets delayed release 375mg, 500mg.
- tablets extended release 375mg, 500mg, 750mg.
- capsules 220mg.
- oral suspension 25mg/mL.
Usual Adult Dose for Pain
Immediate Release (naproxen sodium): 550 mg orally once, followed by 275 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours or 550 mg orally every 12 hours as needed. Maximum dose: 1375 mg/day initial total daily dose; thereafter, not to exceed 1100 mg/day.
Controlled Release: 1000 mg orally once a day. For patients requiring additional analgesia, may increase to 1500 mg orally once a day for a limited time; thereafter, total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg/day.
Over the Counter: 220 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. May take 440 mg orally once in the first hour if needed. Maximum dose: 440 mg (in any 8 to 12 hour period); 660 mg (in any 24 hour period).
Usual Adult Dose for Fever
Over the Counter: 220 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. May take 440 mg orally once in the first hour if needed. Maximum dose: 440 mg (in any 8 to 12 hour period); 660 mg (in any 24 hour period).
Usual Adult Dose for menstrual cramps
At first, 1000 mg (taken as two 500 mg tablets) once a day. Some patients may need 1500 mg (taken as two 750 mg or three 500 mg tablets) per day, for a limited period. However, the dose is usually not more than 1000 mg per day.
Usual Adult Dose for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: 250 mg to 500 mg (naproxen) or 275 mg to 550 mg (naproxen sodium) orally twice a day.
Controlled Release: 750 mg to 1000 mg orally once a day.
Delayed Release: 375 mg to 500 mg orally twice a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Osteoarthritis
Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: 250 mg to 500 mg (naproxen) or 275 mg to 550 mg (naproxen sodium) orally twice a day.
Controlled Release: 750 mg to 1000 mg orally once a day.
Delayed Release: 375 mg to 500 mg orally twice a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: 250 mg to 500 mg (naproxen) or 275 mg to 550 mg (naproxen sodium) orally twice a day.
Controlled Release: 750 mg to 1000 mg orally once a day.
Delayed Release: 375 mg to 500 mg orally twice a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Acute Gout
Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: Initial dose: 750 mg (naproxen) or 825 mg (naproxen sodium) orally once on first day of attack. Following initial dose: 250 mg (naproxen) or 275 mg (naproxen sodium) orally every 8 hours until attack subsides.
Controlled Release: 1000 mg to 1500 mg orally once on first day of attack, followed by 1000 mg orally once a day until attack subsides.
Usual Adult Dose for Bursitis
Immediate Release (naproxen sodium): 550 mg orally once, followed by 275 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours or 550 mg orally every 12 hours as needed. Maximum dose: Initial total daily dose not to exceed 1375 mg; thereafter, not to exceed 1100 mg/day.
Controlled Release: 1000 mg orally once a day. For patients requiring additional analgesia, may increase to 1500 mg orally once a day for a limited time; thereafter, total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg/day.
Usual Adult Dose for Tendonitis
Immediate Release (naproxen sodium): 550 mg orally once, followed by 275 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours or 550 mg orally every 12 hours as needed. Maximum dose: Initial total daily dose not to exceed 1375 mg; thereafter, not to exceed 1100 mg/day.
Controlled Release: 1000 mg orally once a day. For patients requiring additional analgesia, may increase to 1500 mg orally once a day for a limited time; thereafter, total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg/day.
Usual Adult Dose for Dysmenorrhea
Immediate Release (naproxen sodium): 550 mg orally once, followed by 275 mg orally every 6 to 8 hours or 550 mg orally every 12 hours as needed. Maximum dose: 1375 mg/day initial total daily dose; thereafter, not to exceed 1100 mg/day.
Controlled Release: 1000 mg orally once a day. For patients requiring additional analgesia, may increase to 1500 mg orally once a day for a limited time; thereafter, total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg/day.
Over the Counter: 220 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. May take 440 mg orally once in the first hour if needed. Maximum dose: 440 mg (in any 8 to 12 hour period); 660 mg (in any 24 hour period).
Usual Pediatric Dose for Fever
Over the Counter: 12 years or older: 220 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. May take 440 mg orally once in the first hour if needed. Maximum dose: 440 mg (in any 8 to 12 hour period); 660 mg (in any 24 hour period).
Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain
Over the Counter: 12 years or older: 220 mg orally every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. May take 440 mg orally once in the first hour if needed. Maximum dose: 440 mg (in any 8 to 12 hour period); 660 mg (in any 24 hour period).
Usual Pediatric Dose for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Immediate Release Tablets and Suspension: 2 years or older: 5 mg/kg orally twice a day.
What are the daily and maximum doses for adults? Take one tablet, caplet, gelcap or liquid gel every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms last. For the first dose, you may take 2 pills within the first hour. Do not exceed more than 2 tablets, caplets, gelcaps or liquid gels in 12 hours, and do not exceed 3 tablets, caplets, gelcaps or liquid gels in 24 hours. The smallest effective dose should be used. Drink a full glass of water with each dose. Do not take for more than 10 consecutive days for pain or 3 days for fever, unless directed by a doctor.
What's the dose for children under 12? Do not give this product to children under age 12, except under the advice and supervision of a doctor.
For how many days can I take Aleve? Do not take for more than 10 consecutive days for pain or 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.
Buy Aleve Online
Aleve (Naproxen) is available over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States. However, prescription versions of Naproxen cannot be dispensed by a pharmacy OTC. Additionally, for prescription Naproxen, one cannot just buy Naproxen online without first getting a valid prescription. People who want an Aleve prescription can use online pharmacy to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe generic version of Aleve (Naproxen) when appropriate to do so.
Naproxen and its salt formulation have been around for a long time. In fact, the FDA approved the first formulations of naproxen sodium in 1980. That's good news, because formulations of many naproxen and naproxen sodium drugs are now available generically, saving you dollars at the pharmacy. For example, you can easily use the generic OTC naproxen to get the same pain relief as you would from the more expensive prescription brands. Just be sure to ask your doctor what the equivalent OTC dose would be based on your indication. The OTC products come in a lower strength than many prescription options, so you may need to take a higher OTC dose.
Aleve (Naproxen) is the most popular over-the-counter pain relief medication used in the U.S. and around the world. Today millions of American use these drug every week for common ailments such as headache or other pain.
Many painkillers are available from pharmacies without a prescription. In order to use them safely, it is important to pay attention to the dose and interactions with other medicinal products. Before you buy Aleve, compare the lowest discounted acetaminophen prices at U.S. accredited international online pharmacies. Note that the products are sourced from many countries. Please note that the product appearance may vary from actual product received depending on availability.
What is the Cost of Aleve?
The cost for Aleve oral tablet 220 mg is around $8 for a supply of 24 tablets, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Prices are for cash paying customers. You can buy generic Aleve (naproxen) more cheaper and without a prescription from online pharmacy. Before you buy naproxen, compare the lowest discounted naproxen prices at U.S. accredited international online pharmacies.
Using Aleve to Relieve Painful Menstrual Cramps
Also called Dysmenorrhea, Period cramps affect more than half of women on their periods for 1-2 days a month, and sometimes longer. Period pain ranges from dull to severe and is typically concentrated in the lower abdomen and lower back. Painful period cramps, also called primary dysmenorrhea, happens when natural chemicals called prostaglandins rise and cause the lining of the uterus to contract, leading to pain. Try an OTC Pain Reliever - Aleve, works to reduce the production of prostaglandins. This can help temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to menstrual cramps. Naproxen is available over-the-counter for relief of menstrual cramps, but generics work just as well and save you money, too. For menstrual cramps, it may be less expensive to use the generic or store brand naproxen sodium than the branded products, so it's worth a comparison. Be sure to check the package size, too, to be sure you are getting a good deal.
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take it with food if your stomach gets upset. Try to not lie down for at least 10 minutes after you take it. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Long-term, continuous use may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Aleve Possible Side Effects
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
More common:
- Belching
- bruising
- difficult or labored breathing
- feeling of indigestion
- headache
- itching skin
- large, flat, blue, or purplish patches in the skin
- pain in the chest below the breastbone
- skin eruptions
- stomach pain
- swelling
- tightness in the chest
Symptoms of overdose
- Bleeding under the skin
- confusion about identity, place, and time
- muscle tremors
- restlessness
- sleepiness
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common:
- Continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
- hearing loss
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
How should I store Aleve safely?
Kids are curious, and storing medications in your home can be a challenge. Protect your little explorer from the dangers of finding and ingesting medicine with these safety tips. We are committed to increasing the safe use of medicines around children, and bring you these important safety tips.
Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Oral Suspension: Avoid excessive heat above 40C (104F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.