Naproxen Sodium Side Effects

Complications are possible with the use of naproxen sodium. Side effects that occurred in more than 3 percent of people included drowsiness, nausea, stomach pain, and heartburn. Rare side effects (occurring in less than 3 percent) include vision or hearing problems, hepatitis, and depression. Some naproxen sodium side effects require immediate medical attention, such as slurred speech, vomiting blood, and congestive heart failure.

 

Naproxen Sodium Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with naproxen sodium (brand names include Aleve®, Anaprox®, and Naprelan®). However, not everyone who takes naproxen sodium will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug quite well. If naproxen sodium side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(The side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with naproxen sodium. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Common Naproxen Sodium Side Effects

Naproxen sodium has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with thousands of people worldwide having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to those that occurred in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common naproxen sodium side effects (occurring in more than 3 percent of people) included:
 
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Itching
  • Unexplained rash
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fluid retention.
     
(Naproxen Sodium Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;