I really hate going to the doctor. But after suffering with a painful lump on the top of my foot for a couple of months I finally had it looked at. A couple of x-rays later and I had my diagnosis, a bone spur. My doctor prescribed Naproxen, which helped a lot. When I ran out of my prescription I picked up the over-the-counter equivalent Aleve.

The Basics
Aleve is a pain reliving medication in the class of drugs called NASIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The active ingredient in each capsule is 220mg of Naproxen Sodium (200mg of Naproxen) and the usual dosage is 1 tablet every 12 hours and should only be used in patients 12 and older. Aleve is available in tablets, caplets and gelcaps as well as a non-childproof easy open bottle. I purchased a box of 24 caplets for around $4. Aleve is recommend for minor pain such as headaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis pain and backache. It also works are a fever reducer.

My Experience
Aleve works as well as my prescription, although I did double the over-the-counter dosage since my prescription is for 500 mg of Naproxen and two caplets provides 440 mg. My doctor recommended taking naproxen with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset, and I have had no problems.

I get the full 12 hours of pain relief and I like only having to take two doses a day. One day I woke up with a terrible headache so I took some Aleve with my breakfast and the headache was gone in about 20 minutes. With regular dosing Aleve keeps my foot pain in check as well. It works for me and it works quickly. It also keeps the swelling around the bone spur at bay, which further adds to my comfort.

Is Aleve Safe?
In the last year there has been a lot of controversy over many arthritis pain medications such as Celebrex, Vioxx and Aleve. Studies have shown an increase in heart disease among patients taking Celebrex and Vioxx. Aleve may or may not belong in that group. In April the FDA requested changes to the labeling of all NASIDs (including Aleve, Advil and Motrin) to include more information about potential cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks. When discussing this with my doctor she felt that for short term use Aleve was perfectly safe and compatible with breastfeeding, but it should not be taken while pregnant. People who are allergic aspirin or taking blood thinners or any other medication should check with their doctor before taking any pain reliever. As with all medication, even those sold over-the-counter, a quick call to your doctor is the best way to determine if a medication is safe for you.

Should You Take Aleve?
I like Aleve since it lasts 12 full hours I only need to take it twice a day. It really helps relieve my pain and reduce swelling. But Aleve is not for everyone. If you are unsure call you doctor and see if Aleve is safe for you.


Recommended: Yes