Aleve

Aleve is a trusted over-the-counter analgesic specifically formulated to provide long-lasting relief from minor aches and pains. Its active ingredient, naproxen sodium, belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), offering both anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties. With a single dose delivering up to 12 hours of consistent relief, Aleve is designed for those seeking sustained comfort from conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, menstrual cramps, and headaches. Its clinical efficacy and extended duration of action make it a preferred choice among healthcare professionals and patients alike for managing acute and chronic discomfort.

Features

• Active ingredient: naproxen sodium (220 mg per tablet/caplet)
• Formulation: coated tablets, liquid gels, and easy-to-swallow caplets
• Duration of action: up to 12 hours of continuous relief per dose
• Non-opioid, non-habit forming formula
• Available in various strengths including regular and extra strength options
• Rapid onset of action, with pain relief often beginning within one hour

Benefits

• Provides all-day or all-night relief with just two doses in 24 hours
• Reduces inflammation at the source of pain, not just masking symptoms
• Effective for a wide range of pain types including joint, muscle, and menstrual discomfort
• Allows for improved mobility and daily functioning by alleviating stiffness and soreness
• Minimizes frequency of dosing compared to shorter-acting analgesics
• Trusted by millions of users and recommended by healthcare providers for decades

Common use

Aleve is commonly used for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendonitis, bursitis, and acute gout. It is also effective for alleviating menstrual cramps, headaches including migraines, toothaches, backaches, and the pain of the common cold or flu. Additionally, it may be used to reduce fever. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly useful for pain originating from inflammatory processes.

Dosage and direction

For adults and children 12 years and older: take 1 tablet/caplet/gel every 8 to 12 hours while symptoms persist. For the first dose, you may take 2 tablets within the first hour. Do not exceed 2 tablets in any 8- to 12-hour period, and do not exceed 3 tablets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. Swallow whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or dissolve. Take with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. For patients with renal impairment or those over 65, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing.

Precautions

Before using Aleve, inform your doctor if you have a history of asthma, liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, stomach ulcers or bleeding, or bleeding disorders. Avoid alcohol consumption during use, as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Use with caution if you are dehydrated or on a low-salt diet. Do not use for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever unless directed by a physician. Discontinue use and seek medical advice if pain worsens or new symptoms occur.

Contraindications

Aleve is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to naproxen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Do not use during the third trimester of pregnancy. Avoid use in patients with a history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Contraindicated in patients with recent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Do not use in children under 12 years of age unless directed by a physician.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, or mild itching. Serious side effects, though rare, can include signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as black/tarry stools or vomiting blood, symptoms of heart problems like chest pain or shortness of breath, signs of kidney issues including change in urine amount, liver problems manifesting as nausea or jaundice, and severe skin reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if any severe side effects occur.

Drug interaction

Aleve may interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, antiplatelet drugs, other NSAIDs including aspirin, corticosteroids, SSRIs, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, methotrexate, and cyclosporine. It may also affect the efficacy of antihypertensive medications. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids increases the risk of GI bleeding. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Missed dose

Since Aleve is taken on an as-needed basis for pain relief, there is no strict dosing schedule. If you are using it regularly under medical supervision and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, black or bloody stools, coughing up blood, shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring of vital signs.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F) in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Dispose of unused medication properly; do not flush down the toilet or pour into drainage.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

Aleve has consistently received positive feedback from users for its long-lasting relief and effectiveness in managing various types of pain. Many users with chronic conditions such as arthritis report significant improvement in daily comfort and mobility. Healthcare professionals often recommend it for its favorable safety profile when used as directed. Some users note mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which is often mitigated by taking with food. Overall, it is regarded as a reliable option for those needing sustained analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.