Naproxen is most commonly used to treat mild to severe pain, inflammation and stiffness. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by stopping the body’s natural production of prostaglandins. These are substances in the body that cause inflammation, pain and fever.
The risks
If you take the risk of mixing alcohol with naproxen, you’re also opening yourself up to the threat of gastrointestinal issues, like stomach ulcers and intense bleeding. Both substances are extremely irritating to the stomach lining, and if you use them together, it can be messy. Added to that, the risk of liver damage is also made more serious when these two substances are used together, as both alcohol and NSAIDs can have adverse effects on liver function.
Summary of specifics:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding: This risk is particularly high in older adults and those with a history of peptic ulcers.
- Liver damage: Both alcohol and naproxen are metabolised by the liver. Concurrent use can increase the workload on the liver, leading to potential liver damage or failure.
- Kidney damage: Chronic use of NSAIDs like naproxen, especially when combined with alcohol, can impair kidney function, leading to renal complications.
How to use Naproxen safely
To minimise the risks associated with naproxen:
Avoid alcohol: Refrain from alcohol consumption while taking naproxen.
Follow dosage instructions: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Take with food: Taking naproxen with food or milk can help reduce stomach irritation.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help reduce kidney strain.
Monitor for side effects: Be vigilant for symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as stomach pain, bloody stools, or vomiting blood, and seek medical attention if they occur.
Recognising adverse reaction symptoms
While many individuals tolerate naproxen well, some may experience common, mild side effects, which include:
Gastrointestinal issues: These may include nausea, heartburn, indigestion, and mild stomach pain. Taking naproxen with food or milk can often help mitigate these symptoms.
Dizziness and drowsiness: Users may feel lightheaded or sleepy, so it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how naproxen affects them.
Headache: Some users report headaches, which can sometimes be alleviated by ensuring adequate hydration and rest.
More serious adverse reactions require immediate medical attention. These include:
Severe stomach pain: This can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, conditions that can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include black or bloody stools and vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
Chest pain: This could be a sign of cardiovascular issues such as a heart attack or stroke, particularly in those with pre existing heart conditions or risk factors.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or wheezing could signal a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or lung-related issues.
Slurred speech: This may indicate a stroke or other neurological issues, which necessitate immediate emergency care.
Swelling of the face or throat: Swelling, particularly around the face, lips, tongue, or throat, can be a sign of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires urgent medical intervention.
Liver damage symptoms
Naproxen can also cause liver damage, especially with long-term use or at high doses. Symptoms indicating liver damage include:
Dark urine: Dark-coloured urine can be a sign of liver dysfunction or damage.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes is a hallmark of liver issues, indicating that bilirubin is not being properly processed by the liver.
Persistent nausea or vomiting: While mild nausea is common, persistent or severe nausea and vomiting can indicate liver problems. Accompanying symptoms might include fatigue and loss of appetite.
Kidney damage symptoms
Chronic use of naproxen can also affect kidney function, leading to potential kidney damage. Symptoms to watch for include:
Changes in urination: Decreased urine output, blood in the urine, or frothy urine can be indicators of kidney problems.
Swelling in the extremities: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet can be a sign of kidney issues, as the kidneys are not properly filtering waste from the body.
Fatigue and confusion: As waste products build up in the body due to impaired kidney function, individuals may feel unusually tired or confused.
Allergic reactions
Beyond anaphylaxis, less severe allergic reactions may include:
Rash and itching: Skin rashes, hives, or itching can occur. While often manageable, they should be monitored for signs of escalation.
Fever and chills: These symptoms can accompany an allergic reaction and may require medical advice.
You should really seek medical attention at the first sign of experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. Also, talk to your healthcare provider if you have any symptoms that are unusual while taking naproxen, even if they seem mild. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Naproxen, of course, is not considered to be an addictive drug on its own, but an alcohol addiction can complicate its use. Mixing alcohol with naproxen causes some serious health risks, as we outlined above. In order to avoid such risks, it is very important to make sure you use naproxen exactly as directed, avoid alcohol, and keep a close eye on any adverse reactions. If symptoms of alcohol abuse or adverse reactions to naproxen are present in any fashion whatsoever, seek medical assistance immediately.