Aleve Dosage
Calculate the correct Aleve (naproxen) dosage for pain, gout, migraine, arthritis, and more. Free online dosing guide based on indication, age, and tablet strength with charts.
About This Calculator
The Aleve Dosage Calculator helps patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals determine the appropriate dose of Aleve (naproxen) based on the specific condition being treated, the patient's age, and the available tablet strength. Aleve is a brand name for naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation, fever, and stiffness caused by conditions ranging from headaches and muscle aches to arthritis and acute gout. This calculator covers seven common indications with dosage recommendations derived from FDA-approved prescribing guidelines and Medscape reference data.
Naproxen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. The dosage varies significantly by indication — general pain starts at 500 mg initially followed by 250 mg every 6-8 hours, while acute gout requires a higher 750 mg loading dose. For juvenile arthritis, the dose is weight-based at 10 mg/kg/day divided into two doses. The calculator accounts for age restrictions (not recommended for children under 12 for general pain, or under 2 for any indication) and adjusts recommendations accordingly. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimize side effects.
Important Safety Information
Aleve (naproxen) is available over-the-counter in 220 mg tablets and in higher strengths by prescription. NSAIDs like naproxen carry risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events, especially with prolonged use or in people with existing risk factors. The maximum daily dose is 1000 mg for most indications and 1250 mg for acute gout and migraine. Aleve should not be taken with other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil) or aspirin. This calculator provides general dosing guidelines based on published medical references — your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your individual medical history, kidney function, and other medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mg is Aleve and what strengths are available?
Aleve (naproxen) is available in several strengths. Regular tablets come in 220 mg (the only OTC strength sold as Aleve), 250 mg, 275 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg, and 550 mg. Oral suspension is available at 25 mg/mL. Delayed-release and extended-release tablets are also available in 375 mg and 500 mg strengths. The 220 mg tablet is the standard over-the-counter Aleve dosage available without a prescription.
What is the recommended Aleve dosage for adults with pain?
For general pain (headache, muscle pain, back pain) in adults, the recommended Aleve dosage is 500 mg (two 220 mg tablets) initially, then 250 mg every 6-8 hours or 500 mg every 12 hours as needed. Do not exceed 1000 mg per day. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
What is the Aleve dosage for acute gout flare?
For acute gout, the recommended Aleve (naproxen) dosage is 750 mg initially, followed by 250 mg every 8 hours until the attack subsides. The maximum daily dose is 1250 mg (or 1000 mg for prolonged use). Gout treatment typically continues for a few days until symptoms resolve. Always consult a healthcare provider for gout management.
How much Aleve can I take for migraine?
For migraine, the typical Aleve dosage is 750 mg per day. If the migraine persists, you may add up to 500 mg. The maximum daily dose is 1250 mg. Note that this is an off-label use of naproxen. Naproxen is also available in combination with sumatriptan (Treximet) specifically for migraine treatment.
What is the Aleve dosage for juvenile arthritis?
For juvenile arthritis in children over 2 years old, the Aleve (naproxen) dosage is weight-based: 10 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into two equal doses. For example, a 30 kg child would receive 300 mg per day — 150 mg twice daily. This calculator automatically computes the weight-based dose. Naproxen is not recommended for children under 2 years old.
How often can you take Aleve?
Aleve can be taken every 6-8 hours for most indications, with a maximum of 1000-1250 mg per day depending on the condition being treated. For general pain and painful periods, the typical interval is 6-8 hours. For rheumatism, it is taken every 12 hours (twice daily). For acute gout, it is taken every 8 hours. Always follow the dosing instructions from your healthcare provider.
What are common side effects of Aleve (naproxen)?
Common side effects of Aleve include fluid retention (edema), drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, and heartburn. More serious side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding (especially in older adults and with prolonged use), gastric ulcers, increased blood pressure, and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Taking Aleve with food can help reduce stomach upset. Seek medical attention for severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, or signs of allergic reaction.
Can I take Aleve with other pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen?
Aleve (naproxen) can generally be taken with Tylenol (acetaminophen) as they work through different mechanisms — naproxen reduces inflammation while acetaminophen does not. However, you should NOT take Aleve with ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, or other NSAIDs as this increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining any pain medications.