Can You Take Aleve With Alcohol?

Drinking alcohol can have a number of short-term and long-term effects on your health, and it’s important to be aware of any potential risks when combining it with other medications. One of the most commonly used medications is Aleve, and it is often taken for pain relief. So, the question is, can you take Aleve with alcohol? In this article, we’ll discuss the potential risks and considerations for those who want to combine Aleve and alcohol.

Can You Consume Aleve and Alcohol Together?

Aleve is a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help relieve pain, fever and inflammation. It is also known as naproxen sodium and is available over the counter without a prescription. While Aleve is relatively safe to use, it should be taken with caution and combined with alcohol, as it may have some serious side effects.

Aleve is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which means it works by blocking the production of certain enzymes in the body. This helps to reduce inflammation and pain. It is also used to reduce fever and relieve the symptoms of arthritis, such as stiffness and joint pain.

When taken with alcohol, Aleve can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other serious side effects. Alcohol can also increase the effects of Aleve, leading to an increased risk of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness and stomach ulcers.

The Effects of Alcohol on Aleve

Alcohol can interact with Aleve to increase the risk of serious side effects. Alcohol can increase the level of Aleve in the bloodstream and make it more likely to cause side effects. This is because alcohol can interfere with the way the body breaks down the drug.

Alcohol can also increase the risk of stomach bleeding when taken with Aleve. This is because both alcohol and Aleve can irritate the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to bleeding. The risk of bleeding is especially high if you take Aleve on an empty stomach.

Risk Factors for Combining Aleve and Alcohol

The risk of serious side effects when combining Aleve and alcohol is highest for people with certain risk factors. People with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders or liver or kidney disease should avoid taking Aleve with alcohol.

People taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, or other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, should also avoid taking Aleve with alcohol. People over the age of 65 are also at an increased risk of side effects when combining Aleve and alcohol.

Safe Alternatives to Taking Aleve with Alcohol

If you are taking Aleve, it is important to avoid drinking alcohol. If you need pain relief, there are alternatives to taking Aleve with alcohol. You can take Aleve with milk or food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding.

You can also take other pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, which does not interact with alcohol. If you have chronic pain, your doctor can also recommend other medications or treatments that may be more effective and less risky than combining Aleve and alcohol.

Tips for Taking Aleve Safely

When taking Aleve, it is important to follow the directions on the package and not exceed the recommended dose. You should also take it with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

It is important to talk to your doctor if you are taking any other medications, as some medications can interact with Aleve and increase the risk of side effects. If you have certain risk factors, such as a history of bleeding disorders or liver or kidney disease, you should talk to your doctor before taking Aleve.

The Bottom Line

Aleve is a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help relieve pain, fever and inflammation. While it is relatively safe to use, it should be taken with caution and not combined with alcohol, as it can increase the risk of serious side effects. If you need pain relief, there are alternatives to taking Aleve with alcohol, such as taking it with food or milk or taking other pain relievers, such as acetaminophen. It is important to follow the directions on the package and talk to your doctor if you are taking any other medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Take Aleve With Alcohol?

Q1: What is Aleve?
A1: Aleve is a brand of over-the-counter pain relief medication containing the active ingredient naproxen sodium. It is used to relieve minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, toothache, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other minor pains.

Q2: What is the recommended dosage of Aleve?
A2: The recommended dosage of Aleve is one caplet or tablet every 8 to 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of two caplets or tablets in a 24-hour period. It is best taken with food or milk to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Q3: What are the side effects of taking Aleve?
A3: Common side effects of taking Aleve include stomach pain, nausea, constipation, heartburn, dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. More serious side effects can include bleeding in the stomach or intestines, swelling of the face or tongue, and difficulty breathing.

Q4: What happens if I take Aleve with alcohol?
A4: Taking Aleve with alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding, liver damage, and other serious side effects. It is important to talk to a doctor before combining Aleve with alcohol.

Q5: What should I do if I take Aleve with alcohol?
A5: If you take Aleve with alcohol, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Symptoms of liver damage can include nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and abdominal pain.

Q6: Are there alternatives to taking Aleve with alcohol?
A6: If you are experiencing pain, there are alternatives to taking Aleve with alcohol. Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen are both effective pain relievers that can be taken without alcohol. Aspirin is also a good alternative, as long as you do not have any allergies to it.

Can you drink take Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol with Alcohol?!

Although Aleve should not be taken with alcohol, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects when consuming both. It is best to consult your doctor before taking any medication with alcohol, so you can make an informed decision about what is best for your health. With the right precautions, you can enjoy a night out with friends and still take Aleve as needed.