Medicines And The Digestive System
Medicines taken by mouth can affect the digestive system in a number of different ways. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines, while usually safe and effective, may create harmful effects in some people. Certain medicines taken together may interact and cause harmful side effects. In addition, it is important that your healthcare providers know about any allergies, sensitivities, as well as other medical conditions you have before taking a new medicine.
People with food intolerance, such as gluten intolerance, must be sure medicines do not contain fillers or additives with these substances.
Listed below are some problems related to the digestive system that can happen when taking medicine:
Why Do Different Sources Advise Taking Ibuprofen With Food
This advice stems from a desire to protect people from gastrointestinal adverse events, such as dyspepsia, or more serious events such as gastrointestinal bleeding. Although research has shown aspirin to be associated with higher rates of adverse events and gastric irritation there is no evidence that taking occasional, intermittent doses of OTC NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, produce higher event rates. In addition, there is no convincing evidence that taking NSAIDs with food prevents side effects.
The primary way NSAIDs irritate the gastric mucosa is via inhibition of COX-1-dependent prostaglandins, which protect the stomach lining from injury from stomach acid, although some also have a direct irritant effect. Superficial irritation to the gastric lining is more common than ulceration and it is estimated that 1%2% of people who take NSAIDs daily experience a significant gastrointestinal event per year.
See A Doctor For Persistent Pain
Continued and sustained abdominal pain could be a symptom of a bigger, more serious condition. If you continue to experience stomach pain when taking painkillers, consult with a doctor.
Taking NSAIDs for pain relief is safe, but certain treatments can result in stomach pain and discomfort if taken improperly. Simply following the steps above can go a long way towards stopping stomach pain after taking painkillers. If you are unsure or need guidance on the above, speak to our helpful Online Doctor today for confidential advice on pain relief.
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What Interacts With Aleve
Although Aleve can be used without a prescription, other OTC and prescription drugs can interact with Aleve and cause problems. This is important because naproxen stays in the bloodstream for days after taking the last dose. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about taking Aleve before he or she prescribes any other medications. Here are some medications to possibly avoid when taking with Aleve:
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In general, dont use other NSAIDs when taking Aleve. In particular, Aleve should never be used if the prescription NSAID ketorolac is also being taken.
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Because Aleve interferes with blood clotting, tell a doctor about Aleve if youre on a blood-thinning drug.
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Because Aleve can cause stomach bleeding, it should be avoided when taking corticosteroids. Consult with a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional about alternatives to Aleve when taking steroids.
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Tell the doctor or other healthcare provider about using Aleve if they prescribe diuretics, antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, heart medications, certain types of antibiotics , methotrexate, or lithium.
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Because of the risk for stomach bleeding and other gastrointestinal problems, drinking three or more alcoholic drinks per day is not recommended when taking Aleve.
This Is What Happens If You Take Ibuprofen On An Empty Stomach According To Doctors
We’ve been there: a bad headache hits and we’re apt to reach for some meds only to remember we haven’t eaten anything lately and it’s not wise to take pills on an empty stomach. But is it really such a big deal?
Stomach upset is among the most commonly reported side effects of ibuprofen. “The FDA advises ibuprofen be taken with food or milk in patients who have experienced stomach upset with this medication in the past,” said Joshua Russell, MD at Legacy-GoHealth Urgent Care.
Ibuprofen, like aspirin and naproxen , is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug . “These medications can seriously damage the lining of the stomach,” Dr. Russell said.
It has long been believed that food can help “cushion” the stomach from these effects, however, evidence of this has been largely anecdotal. “That being said, if you experience mild stomach upset when taking ibuprofen or other NSAIDs, it is worth trying to take the medication on a full stomach to see if it helps reduce discomfort,” Dr. Russell advised.
“While these issues should be weighed with caution, you should consider speaking to a physician or trained medical professional if your pain or fever last more than 48 hours, as this may be a sign of a more serious matter,” he added.
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Dont Take More Than The Recommended Dosage
NSAID overuse isnt rare: A 2018 study published in the journal Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety revealed that 15 percent of adult users of ibuprofen exceed the maximum recommended dose of ibuprofen or other NSAIDs in a one-week period.
This was typically the result of taking too much of a single NSAID at one time, taking two different NSAIDs simultaneously, or failing to wait long enough before taking another dose. Overuse increases your risk of developing GI side effects from NSAIDs, so be sure to follow your doctors directions to the letter.
Assessing Your Likelihood Of Developing Gi Side Effects From Nsaids
For some arthritis patients, NSAIDs may not be an option because of other health issues.
Typically, if someone has a history of peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or Barretts esophagus, NSAIDs should be avoided, Dr. Bhana says. Anyone who is on blood thinners or will be undergoing surgery may need to avoid these medications as well, he adds, because the risk of life-threatening bleeding is significantly higher.
Other medications that may increase your risk of bleeding when taken with NSAIDs include low-dose aspirin , selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as Prozac and Paxil, and glucocorticoids.
If your doctor determines you shouldnt take oral NSAIDs, he or she may recommend other therapies for pain relief.
There are topical NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, that may be helpful for localized arthritic pain, Dr. Bhana. These have a low rate of systemic absorption and are safer for your stomach.
Non-NSAID analgesics such as acetaminophen may also be an option.
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Stomach Pain After Taking Naproxen Sodium
Naproxen sodium can temporarily reduce pain and lower your fever, but it can have serious gastrointestinal side effects 23. Naproxen is grouped with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen 2. Naproxen effectively treats minor aches and pains, especially when taken precisely as prescribed or according to the over-the-counter naproxen label directions 2. If you have on-going stomach problems, such as stomach upset, pain, heartburn or ulcers, consult your physician before starting naproxen 2.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
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Naproxen May Cause Side Effects Tell Your Doctor If Any Of These Symptoms Are Severe Or Do Not Go Away:
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- burning or tingling in the arms or legs
- loss of appetite
Naproxen may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone .
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How Nsaids Affect Your Gastrointestinal System
NSAID medications work by decreasing the production of chemicals called prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and inflammation in the body. Most NSAIDs do this by blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which are used to make prostaglandins.
However, prostaglandins also have positive effects on the body, so blocking COX enzymes can have unwanted effects. COX-1 plays an important role in protecting the lining of the stomach. Taking NSAIDs that block COX-1 can lead to GI side effects such as abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea. In extreme cases, patients may develop ulcers and life-threatening internal bleeding.
There is currently one NSAID approved in the U.S. Celebrex that blocks only COX-2. The incidence of GI side effects is lower compared to other NSAIDs, Dr. Bhana says. However, Celebrex is more expensive, and it may have more cardiovascular side effects than other NSAIDs.
So are there any NSAIDs that block COX-1 and COX-2 that are milder on the stomach than others? Studies have found that ibuprofen and meloxicam may be less likely to bother your stomach, while ketorolac, aspirin, and indomethacin are associated with a higher risk of GI problems. Read more about how to pick the right NSAID for your needs here.
That said, the specific NSAID you take isnt the most important concern, Dr. Bhana says: Excluding Celebrex, the dosage and frequency are of more concern than the particular NSAID used.
Needless to say, she no longer takes NSAIDs.
Getting The Right Dose
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Gastrointestinal System Side Effects
Aleve may cause serious side effects on your gastrointestinal system, according to Drugs.com 1. This occurs because Aleve reduces substances in your digestive tract that prevent your stomach acid from damaging stomach tissue. These are serious symptoms and you should immediately stop taking Aleve and call your doctor if you are experiencing them. Less serious effects will likely improve as your body adjusts to taking Aleve, but include:
- * gas Take Aleve with food if you begin to experience these effects.
What Side Effects Are Possible With This Medication
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
- ringing or buzzing in the ears
Although most of the side effects listed below dont happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
- bloody or black tarry stools
- severe abdominal pain
- swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles
- swelling or redness in the painful area
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
- blurred vision or any visual disturbance
- signs of a serious allergic reaction
- vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
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Where Should I Keep My Medication
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C . Protect from moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Avoid exposure to extreme heat.
Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
How Should I Take Aleve
Use Aleve exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take this medicine in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition.
If a child is using this medicine, tell your doctor if the child has any changes in weight. Naproxen doses are based on weight in children, and any changes may affect your child’s dose.
If you use Aleve long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.
This medicine can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Aleve.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
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Can We Take Aleve On Empty Stomach
The answer is NO! Aleve stops the COX1 and COX2 enzymes from producing pain hormones. These enzymes are the protective layer that shields the guts from other substances. While pain reduces, without the protective lining, the stomach gets exposed too. As a result, Aleve on an empty stomach increases the chances of ulcers, stomach discomfort etc.
Food helps to cover the linings of the guts, indirectly acting as mucous . There is also a great advantage to consuming Aleve with food. The absorption rate slows down, leading to long-lasting pain relief. Food decreases the acidic value in the stomach. It slows down the time for plasma concentration. This, in turn, helps prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Hence, it is advised to consume the food before taking a dose of Aleve. You may be wondering the type of food you should be consumed before taking Aleve. Milk is preferred as it helps to increase mucous in the intestines .
Special Warnings And Precautions
Problems with stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding can occur with any NSAID, and naproxen is no exception. Typically, these problems are tied to long-term use of the drug, but not alwaysshort-term use of naproxen or other NSAIDs can be problematic for some people.
Stomach ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning. Signs can include burning stomach pain, black stools, or vomiting. Call your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms.
Liver damage can occur in people taking NSAIDs like naproxen. Warning signs include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, appetite loss, itching, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine.
Naproxen can cause fluid retention and swelling in the body. NSAIDs like naproxen have also been linked to increased blood pressure.
NSAIDs, including naproxen, are associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and new onset or worsening of pre-existing hypertension . Cardiovascular risk may be increased with longer duration of use of naproxen or pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
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First What Is Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is in a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Commonly sold in the United States under the brand name Advil, it works by stopping the body’s production of a substance that causes pain, fever and inflammation. Its used to reduce fever and relieve pain or inflammation caused by a whole host of conditions like headaches, toothaches, arthritis, menstrual cramps and more. Though there are some exceptions, ibuprofen is can be taken by adults and children starting at six months old.
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