Uses

Naproxen(Aleve) is an NSAID (Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug). It works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase(COX) enzyme, decreasing the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory molecules which cause pain. It is a commonly used pain reliever and is known for its long lasting effects.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

If stomach upset occurs, you can take it with food or milk to decrease this effect.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take it more than directed.

Do not lie down for 10 minutes after taking this medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Notify your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve.

Long term use of this medication may increase risk of heart attack or stroke. If you currently take aspirin for heart attack prevention, talk to your healthcare provider.

Do not take other medications that contain naproxen, ibuprofen, or aspirin such as cough and cold products while taking this medication unless directed otherwise by a doctor. This will increase your risk of side effects.

Avoid alcohol and tobacco use while taking this medication in order to decrease risk of stomach bleeding or ulcers which can result in death.

Do not operate heavy machinery, drive a car, or engage in other activity that requires fine motor skills until you are sure of how this medication affects you.

Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Tobacco smoking, asthma, consuming more than 3 alcoholic drinks per day, high blood pressure, heart disease or circulation conditions such as edema or heart failure, liver or kidney disease, stomach bleeding or ulcers, allergic reaction history, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reactions(hives, itching, rash, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, bloody or black stools, blood in the urine or vomit, blurred vision, chest pain, nausea or vomiting, trouble speaking, weakness to one side of the body, swelling of the lips, throat or eyelids, weight gain, swelling, excessive fatigue, yellowish eyes or skin, any red loosening or peeling skin.

Other Side Effects

Heartburn, headache, constipation.

Adult Dose

Acute Gout Attack

750 mg by mouth one time for an initial dose, then 250 mg by mouth every 8 hours until the symptoms resolve.

Osteoarthritis

Regular Tablets: 250-500 mg by mouth twice per day.

Rheumatoid Arthitis

Regular Tablets: 250-500 mg by mouth twice per day.

Delayed Release Tablets: 375-500 mg by mouth twice daily. The dose may be changed according to patient response.

Delayed Release Tablets: 375-500 mg by mouth twice per day. The dose may be changed according to patient response.

Pain: 500 mg by mouth taken one time for a starting dose, then 250 mg by mouth every 6-8 hours as needed for pain OR 500 mg every 12 hours as needed for pain.

Max Dose

Non Prescription Use: 660 mg/day.

If Prescribed By a Doctor: 1500 mg/day.

Sources

1. Naprosyn ® oral tablets, oral suspension, naproxen oral tablets, oral suspension[package insert]. Nutley, NJ:  Roche Laboratories Inc; 2008.

2. Naproxen oral tablets, naproxen oral tablets[package insert]. MI:  Perrigo, Allergan; 2005.