How does Aleve interact with aspirin?

Aleve™ is a brand name for the drug naproxen, which is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID for short). Both aspirin and naproxen can thin the blood; this effect is synergistic when the two are taken together. The combination can also irritate the stomach lining, especially when taken without food. That said, most people aren't going to suffer any serious consequences if they take an aspirin within the same 24-hour timeframe as a naproxen tablet. The two do the same thing in a similar way, which is why combining them (or taking them concurrently) doesn't make much sense. === === As mentioned above, both of these meds are gastrointenstinal irritants. That, combined with their platelet inhibiting function make them potentially dangerous when taken together, especially for patients with a history of ulcers or GI bleeds. Do not take these two meds together on an ongoing basis. If you experience stomach pains, heartburn, tarry or black stools, coffee ground vomiting or blood in your stool or vomit, discontinue both these meds at once and head for the ER. Both are serious GI irritants, and aspirin is a blood thinner, inhibiting platelet action and clotting factor. There is therefore a notable risk of GI hemorrhage with this drug combination. While not nearly as lethal as the famous barbituate/alcohol combination, serious counterindications still exist. I would talk to my doc about other painkiller/anti-inflamatory combinations that don't present this risk picture. I would also NOT take this combination myself.