Naproxen sodium (over-the-counter)
Drug Name(s): Aleve, generic
Class: NSAIDs
Used in the treatment of minor arthritis pain.
Dosage
Form(s): tablets, caplets, liquid gels
220 mg every 8 to 12 hours as needed.
Dosages for children: The dosages listed above are those typically prescribed for adults aged 18 to 65. Dosages for children can vary. Ask your doctor about the appropriate dosage for your child.
Special Instructions
For acute pain, use for the shortest time possible to achieve treatment goals, up to 10 days, unless directed otherwise by a doctor.
Do not take with other prescription or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Take at the same time every day.
Take with food or an antacid.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, pain or discomfort; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; gastrointestinal bleeding; headache; heartburn; high blood pressure; nausea or vomiting; peptic ulcer; swelling of feet; rash; ringing in the ears
Be Aware
- Using naproxen with low-dose aspirin may interfere with aspirin’s ability to help prevent heart attacks.
- Before taking any type of NSAID, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs.
- All non-aspirin NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious blood clots, heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk increases with dose and duration of use. Patients who have or who are at risk for cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for these complications.
- NSAIDs increase the risk of serious gastroinestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and gastric or intestinal perforation, which can be fatal.
- Do not take NSAIDs late in pregnancy.
