Possible Consequences of Combining Aleve and Tylenol

Aleve and Tylenol are popular over-the-counter pain relievers, though they work differently. Aleve is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and tylenol is acetaminophen. While it is not common, when taking both of these medications together adverse reactions are possible. It is important that you be aware of these and talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about them.

Low White Blood Cell Counts

If you use both medications long-term, this is a possible consequence. Less than one percent of people experience this, but it is potentially fatal. Having a low white blood cell count also raises your risk for infection. If you are taking both of these medications, you should talk to your doctor about monitoring your blood.

Liver Toxicity

Long-term use or using too much Tylenol may lead to liver toxicity. Aleve and Tylenol are both metabolized by your liver so when taking both of these medications together - especially long-term - your risk of liver toxicity is increased. Liver toxicity may present with abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea and elevated liver enzymes. This is a very serious side effect and your liver should be monitored regularly through blood work.

Low Platelet Production

Prolonged use of Aleve and Tylenol may lower platelet production. You need platelets to properly clot blood. Also, if your platelets are low, you may find that you bleed and bruise easily. If platelets drop rapidly, this can be life-threatening. You will need regular visits with your doctor and will have to be watched for blood loss.

Kidney Failure

Both Aleve and Tylenol are filtered by and then excreted in the urine. Long-term use of both of these medications may take a toll on your kidneys. When you are taking both medications long-term, your kidney function should be regularly assessed through lab work.

Avoiding These Consequences

Of course, not taking Aleve and Tylenol together - especially long-term - is the best way to avoid the above complications. However, not everyone is able to avoid these medications. So, you should first consult your healthcare provider before taking both of these together. Make sure you are never taking more than your doctor recommends in a 24-hour period. Your doctor should also be performing the necessary blood and lab work to make sure that any of the above complications are being looked out for. You should also be fully aware of the symptoms of the above complications so that you can quickly recognize them and get medical attention if one was to occur.

Resources

U.S. National Library of Medicine: Naproxen