Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Aleve as follows:
- Aleve is significantly excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Aleve should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals. Any symptoms of renal injury and altered kidney function, such as, altered levels of consciousness and reduced urine formation, should be closely watched for and reported to the physician. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of compromised renal function, if any, and your safety with using Aleve.
- Discuss with your doctor regarding any previous allergic responses you experienced with other NSAIDs, such as, ibuprofen and diclofenac sodium.
- Aleve carries the risk of causing dizziness and confusion. One should stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until they are used to the side effects caused by Aleve.
- Aleve must be used cautiously in individuals with history of gastric ulcers, as intake of this medication can lead to increased exposure of the stomach lining to the action of gastric acid, leading to erosion of gastric mucosa and development of gastric ulcers. This response to Aleve can significantly increase, if Aleve were taken with alcohol and smoking. Avoid taking Aleve with alcohol. Quit smoking while you are using Aleve. Using enteric coated Aleve can help this situation. Maintain close watch for symptoms of abdominal pain and bleeding in the stool. This bleed in the stomach can also undergo partial digestion, when the color of the blood in stool can appear black. Report these symptoms to the physician immediately.
- Watch out for any continuing or worsening pain, to report to your doctor immediately, so that, a change in plan could be considered.
