The Efficacy of Naproxen on Headaches

Naproxen is a medication used for relieving pain. Naproxen can be used for the treatment of headaches, back pains, and muscle pain. Naproxen is the generic name of Aleve, and it belongs to the drug class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

It is an over the counter medication, and you can even buy Naproxen online from a certified online pharmacy. It can also be used to treat fever and menstrual discomfort in women.

As it is used to tackle pain, Naproxen is an effective medicine for headaches and migraine. Aleve can be used to treat headaches and give better results (Todd, P.A. and Clissold, S.P., 1990).

Effectiveness of Naproxen for Headache

A research was conducted by Simon Law et al. to study the effectiveness of Naproxen on people suffering from headaches and migraine. 6 studies from about 2700 participants were collected by assigning 275mg, 500mg, and 825 mg doses. The participants were given doses of Naproxen and a placebo.

It was observed that Naproxen was more effective in relieving headaches and migraine. People relived after taking Naproxen was more than people taking placebo. There were adverse effects with mild intensity observed when high doses were administered. Thus, Naproxen with lower doses can better effective results against headaches and migraines (Naproxen with or without an antiemetic for acute migraine headaches in adults).

How Does Naproxen Work?

Naproxen affects the enzymes which produce prostaglandins- substances causing inflammation and pain. Aleve restricts the prostaglandin-producing enzymes and thus reduces the headache (Todd, P.A. and Clissold, S.P., 1990).

Forms and strengths of Naproxen

Aleve, also known as Naproxen, is an oral medication available in the form of tablets, gel caps, and caplets. The Aleve tablets and caplets are available in the strength of 220 mg (Todd, P.A. and Clissold, S.P., 1990).

How to Administer Naproxen?

Aleve should be taken as prescribed by the doctor only. Taking a higher dose to tackle headaches quickly should not be done as it will lead to severe side effects and create a threat to life.

The medicine can be taken with or without food. One can take it with milk or food to prevent stomach upset. One should not consume alcohol while taking Aleve. It may lead to stomach bleeding. Taking antacids along with Aleve can act as a barrier in the working of Aleve (Todd, P.A. and Clissold, S.P., 1990).

Dosage of Naproxen

Most of the time, Aleve doesn’t follow a specific schedule. But one should take the dose at the time prescribed by the doctor. One should not take a double dose to compromise the missed dose. Some people take a higher amount to get more effectiveness. But it will cause harm. 

If observed overdose, one should seek emergency medical help to prevent further risk. Difficulty in breathing, seizures, and stomach pain are some of the overdosage symptoms (Todd, P.A. and Clissold, S.P., 1990).

Who should not take Naproxen?

One should not take Naproxen if:

• Used MAO inhibitor in past 2 weeks
• Allergic to Naproxen
• Asthma attack
• Below the age of 12
• Blood pressure and other heart diseases
• Stomach ulcers and bleeding issues
• Kidney and liver disorders
• Addicted to alcohol

It is advised for breastfeeding and pregnant women not to take Aleve as it can harm the woman and child both. It can be taken only if prescribed by the doctor.

Side effects of Naproxen

Following are the common side effects that one can experience after taking Aleve:

• Heartburn
• Swelling
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Ringing in ears
• Abdominal pain

There are some severe side effects associated too with the medication of Aleve, which require emergency medical help or even termination of drugs. The following are the severe side effects:

• Anemia
• Breathlessness
• Chest pain or stroke symptoms
• A quick change in weight
• Skin rashes
• Stomach bleeding

Conclusion

Naproxen is an effective medicine for headaches if taken in smaller dosages. Aleve can be taken for other pains too. Proper medical guidance should be taken before taking Aleve in order to prevent the risk of adverse effects.