Aleve side effects will be described in the following article. Aleve is also sold as Naprelan, Anaprox and Naprosyn. This medication belongs to the group of NSAID medications (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), just like ibuprofen, nabumetone, indomethacin, etc. These medications are often used in treating pain (mild to moderate), inflammation and fever. They reduce the levels of prostaglandins (these chemicals are related to fever, inflammatory processes and pain).

Aleve is taken twice a day, in doses from 250 to 500 mg. In some cases, 750 mg tablets (or 1000 mg tablets) can be used once a day. This medication is always taken with foods, in order to reduce the stomach upset.

Are There Any Interactions?

● There can be some interactions. Aleve can elevate the levels of lithium in blood, which can further cause lithium toxicity.

● The blood pressure can be lowered by this medication.

● If taken with aminoglycosides or methotrexate, Aleve can increase the levels of these chemicals in blood.

● People who use blood thinners should not use Aleve, because such combination can lead to bleeding due to excessive blood thinning.

● If you are pregnant, you should not use this medication. However, it seems that breast-feeding mothers can use this medication, because the amounts excreted in a woman’s milk are low.

Aleve Side Effects

Side effects of Aleve usually include:

● Skin rash
● Dizziness
● Headache
● Abdominal pain
● Drowsiness
● Diarrhea
● Nausea
● Heartburn
● Constipation
● Short breath
● Fluid retention

In some cases, this medication can lead to increased bleeding. Stomach ulcers and intestinal bleeding are also possible in some patients. The symptoms associated with stomach ulcers (and intestinal bleeding) usually include dark stools, dizziness, and weakness.

If you are allergic to any medication that belongs to this group (NSAID), you should not use Aleve. In some cases, NSAIDs can increase the chances for a stroke or heart attack.

Older patients can be at risk of severe intestinal bleeding. This can happen suddenly, without any warning.

If you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor immediately:

● Black stools
● Persistent pain in the abdomen
● Pain in your left arm, jaw or chest
● Confusion
● Sweating
● Slurred speech
● Vision changes

It is very important to talk to your doctor before you start using this medication. You must tell your doctor about other medications you use. If you have ever had any health problems, your doctor must know about them.