From the Guidelines
It is generally safe for most people to take cetirizine and naproxen (Aleve) together, but caution is advised due to potential increased risk of gastrointestinal complications, particularly in individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications that may interact with naproxen 1.
Important Considerations
When taking cetirizine and naproxen together, it's essential to be aware of the potential side effects and interactions. Both medications can cause drowsiness, so it's crucial to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how they affect you.
- Follow the recommended dosages for each medication: typically 10mg once daily for cetirizine and 220-440mg every 8-12 hours for over-the-counter naproxen (Aleve), not exceeding 660mg in 24 hours.
- Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers, or heart problems, should consult their healthcare provider before taking these medications together.
- Those taking other medications that might interact with either drug should also consult their healthcare provider.
Gastrointestinal Risks
The use of naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, including dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and GI bleeding 1.
- A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the annual incidence of NSAID-related upper gastrointestinal events (UGIE) is 2.0% to 4.5% 1.
- Another study published in the American Family Physician found that the risk of GI bleeding associated with NSAID use is dependent on age and patient history, with a one-year risk of one in 2,100 adults younger than 45 and one in 110 adults older than 75 1.
Recommendations
To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal complications, it is recommended to take a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or histamine H2 blocker with naproxen, especially in individuals with a history of NSAID-associated upper GI tract bleeding or those at high risk of GI complications 1.
From the Research
Gastrointestinal Safety of NSAIDs
The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen (Aleve) can increase the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) complications, including bleeding and perforation 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Interaction with Cetirizine
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the interaction between cetirizine and naproxen. However, it is known that cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, and its interaction with NSAIDs like naproxen is not well-studied in the context of GI safety.
Gastrointestinal Risks of Naproxen
Naproxen is considered to have a higher GI toxicity compared to some other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen 3, 4. The risk of GI complications with naproxen can be increased in patients with a history of GI problems, advanced age, or those taking other medications like anticoagulants or corticosteroids 2, 6.
Strategies to Reduce GI Risk
To minimize the risk of GI complications when taking naproxen, strategies such as co-therapy with acid suppressors (e.g., proton pump inhibitors) or using COX-2 selective inhibitors may be beneficial 2, 3, 5.
Key Points to Consider
- Naproxen can increase the risk of GI complications.
- The risk can be higher in certain patient groups, such as the elderly or those with a history of GI problems.
- Strategies to reduce GI risk include co-therapy with acid suppressors or using COX-2 selective inhibitors.
- There is limited information on the interaction between cetirizine and naproxen in the context of GI safety.