FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: LABELING AND USAGE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: LABELING AND USAGE
Aleve Safety & Usage
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.
Can Aleve be taken with high blood pressure medication?
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 blood thinners such as COUMADIN® (warfarin sodium)?
If you are taking any other drug, talk to a doctor before use 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 Advil®?
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 at 20 weeks or later in 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.