Naproxen: Uses, Risks, and What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you reach for naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to reduce pain, swelling, and fever. Also known as Aleve, it's one of the most bought over-the-counter pain relievers in the U.S. and Europe. But just because it’s easy to get doesn’t mean it’s safe for everyone. Millions use it for headaches, muscle aches, or arthritis, but few know the hidden risks hiding in plain sight.

Naproxen belongs to a group called NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that block enzymes causing inflammation and pain. It’s similar to ibuprofen but lasts longer—up to 12 hours per dose. That’s why people reach for it for chronic pain. But the same mechanism that eases your joint pain can also damage your stomach lining, raise your blood pressure, or stress your kidneys. Studies show regular use increases the chance of stomach ulcers, open sores in the digestive tract caused by reduced protective mucus by up to 40%, especially in people over 60 or those taking blood thinners. And if you have high blood pressure or heart disease, naproxen might make it worse.

It’s not just your gut and heart at risk. Long-term use can lead to kidney damage, reduced kidney function from decreased blood flow caused by NSAID inhibition. This isn’t rare—it shows up in emergency rooms every day, often in older adults who’ve been taking it for years thinking it’s harmless. Even a single high dose can trigger problems in people with existing kidney issues. And if you’re on diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or have diabetes, you’re already at higher risk.

What you won’t find on the bottle: naproxen can interact with other common meds. It can make antidepressants less effective, increase bleeding risk with aspirin or warfarin, and mess with blood pressure drugs like lisinopril. Many people take it without telling their doctor because they think it’s "just a pain pill." But that’s exactly when things go wrong.

The posts below cover real cases and warnings you won’t hear from ads. You’ll see how naproxen connects to other drugs like metformin and linezolid—both linked to rare but dangerous side effects. You’ll learn what symptoms to watch for, who should never take it, and safer alternatives for chronic pain. No fluff. No marketing. Just what matters for your health.