{"id":59096,"date":"2023-07-07T10:00:25","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T14:00:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=59096"},"modified":"2024-10-25T10:38:23","modified_gmt":"2024-10-25T14:38:23","slug":"naproxen-and-alcohol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/naproxen-and-alcohol\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you drink on Naproxen?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Naproxen<\/span><\/a> is a popular over-the-counter (OTC) drug that relieves pain and reduces inflammation. It’s a standard treatment for headaches, muscle pain, toothaches, and even temporary fevers. While many people may experience pain relief using naproxen, the question often arises as to whether or not drinking alcohol is safe while taking it.<\/span><\/p>\n

The risks of mixing alcohol and naproxen can depend on the amounts of alcohol and naproxen consumed. However, the simple answer is that mixing the two is not generally recommended. Combining these substances may lead to increased risks and potentially dangerous side effects. NSAIDs, like naproxen, can cause higher risk of stomach bleeding and ulcers, and long-term alcohol consumption has been shown to amplify that risk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Continue reading to learn more about the safety concerns of drinking while on naproxen. <\/span><\/p>\n

What is naproxen?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Naproxen<\/span><\/a> is a <\/span>nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)<\/span><\/a>, the same class of drugs as <\/span>ibuprofen<\/span><\/a>. It treats pain and inflammation caused by various conditions, including headaches, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, tendinitis, and gout. It is available under several brand names, including <\/span>Aleve<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Naprosyn<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Anaprox<\/span><\/a>, and Flanax. <\/span><\/p>\n

NSAIDs work by blocking the effects of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins can elevate body temperature and make nerve endings more sensitive to pain signals. By blocking COX enzymes, naproxen can reduce the production of prostaglandins to decrease inflammation and pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

Naproxen is available in different formulations, strengths, and dosages. You can purchase it over the counter in dosages that typically range from 200 to 220 mg, or a healthcare professional can prescribe it at higher doses, which may vary depending on the condition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you mix naproxen and alcohol?<\/span><\/h2>\n

It may be possible to consume alcohol in moderation while taking naproxen. However, mixing the two substances may increase health risks and potential side effects. Drinking alcohol while using naproxen may worsen or intensify <\/span>naproxen’s common side effects<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Some of these amplified side effects may include:<\/span><\/p>\n