Aleve (also known as naproxen) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) related to aspirin. All of the NSAIDs have the potential to cause damage to the stomach and esophagus, including Aleve. This usually happens when the drugs are taken without water and at bedtime. The tablet lodges in the esophagus and causes damage to the lining, causing heartburn-like symptoms. In most cases the damage is minor and goes away on its own. In some cases, however, the damage can be severe, causing strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), ulceration (erosion of the lining) or perforation (a hole going all the way through the esophagus). The symptoms usually go away in a couple of days if the damage is not severe. Symptoms that last for more than that may need to be investigated further. If the symptoms do not go away in a couple of days, contact your health care provider.
Aleve and Heartburn
Copyright 2006 Harvard Health Publications
Question:
A few days ago I took the over-the-counter drug Aleve prior to going to sleep, without drinking any water. During the night I felt severe heartburn. Since then the heartburn has gone but now I feel like I have difficulty swallowing. Is this a known side effect of Aleve?
Answer:
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Source: from the Harvard Health Publications Family Health Guide, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved.
Used with permission of StayWell.
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