30 Mar 2022
Your good health is the motive behind every medical advice. In the case of Aleve, it is a standard OTC medicine used for pain-relieving and inflamed muscles. It is identified as a Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) in medical terms. IT is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription you can even buy Naproxen online from certified pharmacy.
Aleve stops the pain-inducing hormones and relaxes the patient. Aleve should be consumed with food because Aleve can affect the lining of the intestine, which can result in gastrointestinal problems.
So, let's get to know how Aleve works, what its effects are, and what should be done for better results (Nature medicine. 1995 Feb;1).
How Does Aleve Work?
Aleve works by pausing the pain hormones called prostaglandin. Aleve consists of the active ingredient Naproxen Sodium. This ingredient blocks and prevents the COX1 and COX2 enzymes (a protective layer on linings of guts to protect from acid) from producing prostaglandin.
This results in a decrease in pain. There is a close connection between an empty stomach and Aleve's working mechanism (Moyer, S., 1986).
Can We Take Aleve On Empty Stomach?
The answer is NO! Aleve stops the COX1 and COX2 enzymes from producing pain hormones. These enzymes are the protective layer that shields the guts from other substances. While pain reduces, without the protective lining, the stomach gets exposed too. As a result, Aleve on an empty stomach increases the chances of ulcers, stomach discomfort etc.
Food helps to cover the linings of the guts, indirectly acting as mucous (Soft substances in the intestines). There is also a great advantage to consuming Aleve with food. The absorption rate slows down, leading to long-lasting pain relief. Food decreases the acidic value in the stomach. It slows down the time for plasma concentration. This, in turn, helps prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Hence, it is advised to consume the food before taking a dose of Aleve. You may be wondering the type of food you should be consumed before taking Aleve. Milk is preferred as it helps to increase mucous in the intestines (Moyer, S., 1986).
Does Aleve Interact With Other Medicines?
Interactions are the reactions that arise when another medicine is consumed simultaneously. This can bring down the effectiveness of drugs and may also lead to other consequences.
Aleve interacts with other medications too. This can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, heart stroke, and blood clotting problems. The drugs that interact with Aleve are as follows:
- Blood pressure medicines
- Ibuprofen
- Lisinopril
- Metformin
- Aspirin
The Proper Dose Of Aleve
It is essential to know the proper forms and dosage of all medicines, especially if you are consuming OTC medication. The dose can vary according to the pain you are undergoing. Here is the general availability of Aleve.
Aleve's Forms, Strengths And Dosages
Tablet
220mg (OTC), 250mg, 275mg, 500mg
Capsule
220mg
Oral suspension 25mg/ml
For Adult: One tablet/one capsule every 8 to 12 hours
For Paediatrics: Children under 12 years should have prescription
Pregnant/breastfeeding women should consume under supervision. It is likely that Aleve will be passed on in milk during lactation.
What If I Missed A Dose Of Aleve?
Missing a dose is a common concern in most people's life. There can be many reasons and circumstances behind it. It is necessary to keep track of your dosage.
If you have missed a dose, you could skip the current dose and continue with the next dose but don't take a double dose to cover the previous one. It can lead to overdose.
Aleve Side Effects
Aleve's side effect includes the following:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Liver damage
- Kidney problems
- Gastrointestinal problem
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Aleve pauses the enzymes that can affect the inner linings of the intestines. A patient should take Aleve with food for better results. Here, milk can be an excellent lubricant while taking medicine. Make sure to eat something or drink something with Aleve.
