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Can I take Aleve (naproxen) while on Eliquis (apixaban)?
Mixing Aleve (naproxen) with Eliquis (apixaban) generally increases bleeding risk. NSAIDs such as naproxen can add to the blood-thinning effect of Eliquis, which can raise the chance of stomach bleeding and other bleeding. For many people, this combination is not recommended unless your prescriber specifically approves it.
What’s the main risk if you combine naproxen with apixaban?
The biggest concern is bleeding—especially:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (stomach/intestinal bleeding)
- Bruising or bleeding that’s harder to stop
- Serious bleeding events in people at higher risk (older age, history of ulcers/bleeds, kidney disease, or use of other blood-thinners)
Is there a safer pain or fever option than Aleve?
Often, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is preferred for pain or fever when someone is on Eliquis, because it does not carry the same bleeding risk as NSAIDs. Your dosing should still match what your clinician recommends and the label directions (and you should consider liver risk with higher doses).
When might a doctor still allow an NSAID with Eliquis?
A clinician may choose to allow an NSAID only if the benefit is clear and the person has lower bleeding risk, and may recommend the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest time. They may also consider adding stomach protection for some patients. You should not start Aleve on your own while taking Eliquis.
What should you do if you already took Aleve with Eliquis?
If you took a dose once, the risk may not be immediate, but you should avoid more doses and contact your prescriber or pharmacist for guidance. Seek urgent care if you have signs of bleeding such as:
- Black/tarry stools, blood in stool
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Severe or persistent headache, dizziness, fainting
- Unusual or heavy bleeding, or bleeding that won’t stop
Quick check: what info would change the safest answer?
Your clinician may tailor advice based on factors like:
- Your Eliquis dose and why you take it (atrial fibrillation, DVT/PE)
- History of ulcers or GI bleeding
- Kidney function
- Other meds that affect bleeding (aspirin, clopidogrel, other NSAIDs, SSRIs/SNRIs)
- How often you need pain relief
If you tell me your Eliquis dose (e.g., 5 mg twice daily) and what you’re taking Aleve for (pain type, how many days), I can help you think through safer next steps to discuss with your prescriber.