Can You Take Aleve With Prednisone?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not you can take Aleve (naproxen) with prednisone.
Can I take Aleve in between my dosages of prednisone?
Sep 01, 2022- Taking Aleve with prednisone increases the risk of stomach problems including nausea, upset stomach, ulceration, and bleeding. Short-term use of both medications together may be acceptable, but prolonged use should be avoided. Talk to your doctor before taking Aleve with prednisone if you need pain relief for an extended period.
Answer
Thanks so much for reaching out! It's not uncommon for people to take NSAIDs (e.g. Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve) with prednisone for short periods of time. There is, however, one possible problem you want to be aware of.
Taking both an NSAID, like Aleve, and prednisone increases the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. Some of these side effects are relatively minor (e.g. nausea, upset stomach), but long-term use increases the risk of more serious ones, such as:
- Ulceration
- Bleeding
Although some individuals may be prescribed corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone) and NSAIDs at the same time, which can be done successfully for short periods of time without problems, prolonged concomitant administration should be avoided.
Why Does This Interaction Occur?
There are thought to be multiple reasons why the combination of steroids like prednisone and NSAIDs can lead to stomach problems, which include an overall increase in stomach acidity, a reduction in the protective mucus in the stomach, and the reduction in prostaglandins, which also protect the stomach.
Final Words
Thanks for your question! If you feel like you'll need to take Aleve with prednisone for a long period of time, you should reach out to your doctor before doing so to see if there are better/safer options for you.
References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- NSAIDs
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Prednisone
- A corticosteroid medication that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system.
- Gastrointestinal
- Relating to the stomach and intestines.
- Ulceration
- The formation of open sores or erosions in the stomach or intestinal lining.
- Corticosteroids
- A class of anti-inflammatory medications that mimic hormones produced by the body to reduce swelling and immune response.
- Concomitant
- Occurring or existing at the same time.
- Prostaglandins
- Hormone-like substances in the body that help protect the stomach lining and reduce stomach acid.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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