Aleve D Side Effects

Aleve D Side Effects
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Aleve D is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug used to relieve nasal congestion, headaches and sinus pressure. While it is an OTC drug, it generally is controlled by pharmacies because it contains pseudoephedrine. This drug, used to fight congestion, also is an ingredient in the illegal drug methamphetamine, also called crystal meth. So while it does not require a doctor's prescription, you still may need to provide identification to purchase it.

Naproxen Sodium

Aleve D contains 220mg of naproxen sodium in each pill. This is a drug classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID. Naproxen sodium may produce such side effects as constipation, blurry vision, headaches, itching, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting, tunnel vision, night blindness, indigestion, anxiety, cold sweats, confusion, coma, a cough, hair loss and high fever among others.

Pseudoephedrine

Aleve D also contains 120mg of pseudoephedrine per pill. This medicine is used to treat congestion. Although they may be rare, side effects may include difficulty breathing, hallucinations, seizures and irregular heartbeats. Any of these side effects require a doctor's attention. Other, less severe side effects may include insomnia, restlessness, dizziness, weakness, pale skin, headaches, rapid heartbeats, pain when urinating, vomiting and nausea. An overdose may produce such side effects as high blood pressure, severe difficulty in breathing, a continual irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, hallucinations and convulsions.

Pre-existing Conditions

Bayer HealthCare, the company that makes Aleve D, recommends talking to your doctor if you already have some conditions that might be exacerbated by taking the medication. These pre-existing conditions include prostate problems, diabetes, thyroid disease and high blood pressure. Also, the company states, those who have an allergy to aspirin may have an allergic reaction that could be severe. Side effects from Aleve D in this case could include wheezing when breathing, swelling in the face, a rash or hives, red skin or blisters or shock.

References

Article reviewed by demand241 Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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