Aleve Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Taking It

When you reach for Aleve, a common over-the-counter pain reliever containing naproxen, used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. Also known as naproxen, it's one of the most popular NSAIDs in medicine cabinets across the U.S. But just because it’s available without a prescription doesn’t mean it’s harmless. Thousands of people take Aleve every day for headaches, back pain, or menstrual cramps — but many don’t realize how deeply it can affect their body.

Like all NSAIDs, Aleve works by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling. But those same enzymes also protect your stomach lining and help regulate blood flow to your kidneys. That’s why side effects aren’t rare — they’re built into how the drug works. The most common issue? Upset stomach. You might feel bloated, nauseous, or get heartburn. For some, it leads to ulcers or internal bleeding, especially if taken daily for weeks. People over 60, those with a history of stomach problems, or anyone on blood thinners are at higher risk. And it’s not just your gut. Long-term use can raise blood pressure, strain your kidneys, and increase the chance of heart attack or stroke — even in people who’ve never had heart issues before. The FDA has warned about this for years, yet many still treat Aleve like a vitamin.

What most users don’t know is that these side effects don’t always show up right away. You might feel fine for months, then suddenly have a serious reaction. That’s why it’s not just about how much you take — it’s about how long and how often. If you’re using Aleve more than a few days a week, you should talk to a doctor. There are safer alternatives for chronic pain, like physical therapy, acetaminophen (in moderation), or even topical creams. And if you’re taking it for arthritis or back pain, you might need a different kind of treatment entirely. The goal isn’t to scare you off Aleve — it’s to make sure you’re not using it blindly.

Below, you’ll find real-world comparisons and patient experiences from people who’ve dealt with NSAID side effects — from mild stomach trouble to serious reactions. You’ll see how others managed their pain without relying on daily pills, what symptoms to watch for, and when to stop and call a doctor. This isn’t theoretical advice. These are stories from people who learned the hard way — and what they wish they’d known before reaching for that bottle.