Aleve and Ibuprofen 101
What is Aleve?
Aleve (Naproxen) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Doctors recommend it to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains and also to temporarily reduce fever.
What is Ibuprofen?
Like Aleve, Ibuprofen is also a NSAID used to manage various conditions. This drug is available over-the-counter and in prescription strength. Ibuprofen injection may also be used with an opioid pain medicine, like hydrocodone or morphine, to treat severe pain.
Aleve vs. Ibuprofen
Both Naproxen and ibuprofen are NSAIDs so, in many ways, they are similar, but there are key differences to take into consideration when choosing which to take after an injury.
- 440 mg Aleve is approximately equivalent to a 400mg ibuprofen.
- Ibuprofen tablets/capsules are administered every four to six hours. Aleve is considered long-acting, therefore is prescribed every 12 hours.
- Because of Ibuprofen’s short action, it is better suited for the treatment of acute pain, whereas Aleve has a slower onset of effect, so it is better for treating chronic conditions.
- Aleve is more likely than ibuprofen to cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects.
- Ibuprofen is the most appropriate NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) for children out of the two.
How to Take Aleve and Ibuprofen after an Injury
Because of their antiinflammatory power, they are taken to manage acute pain and swelling. It is important that when injured, you see a doctor straight away to learn what dose you need to deal with the pain caused by your specific injury.
During your consultation, your doctor will indicate a schedule that will last a couple of days and which you need to follow, even though you aren’t hurting anymore.
Because these medications are anti-inflammatories, they don’t mask symptoms, they deal with the root source of the pain.
At Ashford Orthopedic Specialists, Dr. Ashford and the team will assess your injury and recommend the best course of action based on your specific needs.
Welcome to Ashford Orthopedic Specialists, where we are devoted to keeping you strong, one step at a time.
