Aleve Pain Relief (naproxen sodium) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain and inflammation, states the Mayo Clinic. Aleve reduces chemical signals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. This medication is used to treat osteoarthritis, anklylosing spondylitis, tendinitis, bursitis and menstrual cramps, states Drugs.com. Aleve should not be taken for more than 10 days for pain. All medications have side effects that can be troublesome. Patients should know what side effects to expect and what to do if they occur.
Ulcers
The most worrisome side effect of Aleve Pain Relief is an ulcer of the stomach or intestines, according to Drugs.com. Ulcers can form at any time without warning to a patient. Aleve Pain Relief inhibits certain substances that protect the lining of the stomach and intestines, which allows stomach acid to damage these organs. This results in a patient coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. In addition, he may have black, bloody or tarry stools, dark urine or jaundice. Aleve Pain Relief should be discontinued immediately in such cases and the patient should seek immediate medical treatment.
Weakness
Drugs.com states that Aleve Pain Relief may cause weakness because it alters certain chemical signals that help cells in the brain communicate with each other. The resulting weakness can make it difficult to complete activities of daily living. In this case, patients should stop taking this medication and contact a physician. In addition, patients should take caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Rash
Aleve Pain Relief may also cause a rash, states Drugs.com, which may be red, purple or peeling, or it may look like a blister. While a rash may not seem alarming, it can be a sign of a serious reaction to Aleve Pain Relief. This patient should stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention. The patient should not apply skin creams to a rash until a doctor sees him.
About this Author
Jacques Courseault is the fitness editor for Dr.Gourmet.com, founder and writer of Exercise Menu, and co-founder of Don’t Weight to Lose. He is a fourth-year medical student who plans to practice physical medicine and rehabilitation.
