Aleve 220 mg tablets contain naproxen sodium, equivalent to 200 mg naproxen. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. This summary concerns the single-ingredient oral tablet and the US product information. Aleve PM adds a sedating ingredient, while prescription naproxen products can have different strengths and instructions.<\/p>\n
The US label describes temporary relief of minor arthritis pain, muscle aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache and aches associated with a cold, together with fever reduction. It is symptom relief rather than a treatment for every cause of pain. A recurrent need for the medicine or symptoms that are worsening should prompt assessment.<\/p>\n
Oral naproxen can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea, dizziness, tiredness and ringing in the ears. Avoid driving if dizziness or visual problems occur. People with a previous ulcer, heart or kidney disease, bleeding problems, asthma related to painkillers or other serious conditions need a suitability check before using it.<\/p>\n
The US product carries warnings for stomach bleeding, heart attack, heart failure and stroke; risk rises with excessive amounts or longer use. Black tar-like stools, vomiting blood, faintness, persistent severe abdominal pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty, one-sided weakness or speech changes require urgent medical attention. Swelling of the face or throat and a blistering rash may signal a serious allergic reaction.<\/p>\n
Anticoagulants, steroids, some antidepressants, diuretics, blood-pressure medicines and methotrexate merit particular attention. Combining naproxen with ibuprofen or another NSAID can increase harm. The Aleve label also warns that naproxen may reduce the heart-protective benefit of aspirin; people prescribed aspirin should ask for advice rather than change it themselves. Heavy alcohol use increases bleeding risk.<\/p>\n
The US label cautions against use from 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically directed by a doctor. Breastfeeding also needs advice: NHS guidance generally prefers other options but allows individual assessment. Do not transfer these product instructions to children, prescription formulations or another country without checking the corresponding leaflet.<\/p>\n
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