MAJOR — Use With Caution
FDA-documented interaction. Same mechanism as other NSAIDs. Naproxen longer half-life may cause more sustained lithium elevation.
Evidence level: STRONG
Naproxen (Aleve) can raise lithium levels dangerously by reducing kidney elimination. Because naproxen lasts longer than ibuprofen, the effect may be more pronounced.
Same mechanism as ibuprofen — NSAID-induced reduction in renal prostaglandins decreases lithium clearance. FDA lithium label warns about NSAIDs.
Avoid Aleve if you take lithium. Use acetaminophen for pain. Naproxen long duration makes this interaction particularly risky.
Take Naproxen with food to protect the stomach lining. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest duration. Stay well hydrated — NSAIDs can affect kidney function.
Higher risk for: elderly, those with history of GI bleeding or ulcers, renal impairment, concurrent anticoagulant or corticosteroid use, cardiovascular disease, or chronic high-dose NSAID use.
Increased tremor, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, confusion, muscle twitching, slurred speech
Choose acetaminophen over NSAIDs. If NSAID needed, monitor lithium levels closely.
NSAID interactions often involve bleeding risk or kidney strain. Safer anti-inflammatory alternatives: curcumin/turmeric, omega-3 fish oil, or acetaminophen (for pain without anti-inflammatory effects). Use NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Naproxen (Aleve) can raise lithium levels dangerously by reducing kidney elimination. Because naproxen lasts longer than ibuprofen, the effect may be more pronounced.
Take Naproxen with food to protect the stomach lining. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest duration. Stay well hydrated — NSAIDs can affect kidney function.
Increased tremor, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, confusion, muscle twitching, slurred speech
NSAID interactions often involve bleeding risk or kidney strain. Safer anti-inflammatory alternatives: curcumin/turmeric, omega-3 fish oil, or acetaminophen (for pain without anti-inflammatory effects). Use NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Choose acetaminophen over NSAIDs. If NSAID needed, monitor lithium levels closely.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).