Is Naproxen (NSAID) the same as Aleve (Naproxen)?

Naproxen and Aleve: The Same Medication

Yes, Naproxen and Aleve are the same medication. Aleve is simply the brand name for over-the-counter naproxen sodium. 1

Understanding Naproxen/Aleve

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the propionic acid class. It has analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (fever-reducing), and anti-inflammatory properties 2. When sold under the brand name Aleve, it is specifically formulated as naproxen sodium, which allows for more rapid absorption from the gastrointestinal tract compared to regular naproxen 3.

Key Facts:

• Naproxen sodium (Aleve) is available over-the-counter at a dosage of 220 mg, typically taken twice daily 1
• Prescription naproxen is available in various strengths (250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg) 1
• Both forms contain the same active ingredient and have identical effects once absorbed 3

Clinical Uses

Naproxen/Aleve is FDA-approved for multiple conditions 4:

• Relief of pain (headache, muscle aches, minor arthritis)
• Management of primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
• Reduction of fever
• Treatment of inflammatory conditions:
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Juvenile arthritis
  • Tendonitis and bursitis
  • Acute gout

Pharmacology

When taken orally, naproxen sodium is:

• Rapidly and completely absorbed (95% bioavailability)
• Highly protein-bound (>99% to albumin at therapeutic doses)
• Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
• Excreted primarily through urine
• Has a half-life of 12-17 hours, allowing for twice-daily dosing 4, 5

Safety Considerations

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn)
• Risk of GI bleeding (3-45% of users report GI symptoms) 1

Important Precautions:

1. Cardiovascular Risk: Like other NSAIDs, naproxen may increase risk of cardiovascular events 1

2. Bleeding Risk: Particularly important when combined with anticoagulants, where it can increase bleeding risk 3-6 fold 1

3. Drug Interactions: May interact with:

   • Warfarin (can increase INR by up to 15%)
   • Lithium
   • Methotrexate 5

4. Perioperative Considerations: Should be withheld 2-3 days before surgery due to antiplatelet effects 1

5. Respiratory Concerns: May trigger respiratory symptoms in patients with asthma (aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease) 1

Practical Differences Between OTC and Prescription Forms

While chemically identical, there are important differences between over-the-counter Aleve and prescription naproxen:

1. Dosage:

   • OTC naproxen sodium (Aleve): 220 mg per tablet
   • Prescription naproxen: Available in 250 mg, 375 mg, and 500 mg strengths 1

2. Cost:

   • OTC naproxen sodium (Aleve): Generally less than $5 for a month's supply
   • Prescription naproxen: $17-27 for generic, $84-187 for brand name per month 1

3. Recommended Use:

   • OTC: For short-term use (typically 10 days or less)
   • Prescription: May be prescribed for longer-term management of chronic conditions

Bottom Line

Naproxen and Aleve are the same medication, with Aleve being the brand name for over-the-counter naproxen sodium. The primary differences are in dosage strength, cost, and intended duration of use, but the active ingredient and therapeutic effects are identical once absorbed in the body.