Can I take Gabapentin and Naproxen together?

Why this happens

Naproxen appears to increase the absorption of gabapentin in the gut by approximately 12% to 15%. Furthermore, both drugs are cleared from the body through the kidneys; naproxen can sometimes reduce kidney function, which may slow down how quickly gabapentin is removed from your system.

What you should do

It is generally safe to take these together, but you should be aware that you might feel more sleepy or dizzy than usual. Start with the lowest effective dose of naproxen and monitor how you feel. If you experience significant drowsiness, confusion, or swelling in your legs, contact your doctor. Ensure you stay well-hydrated to help your kidneys process the medications.

Important precautions

Breathing problems or opioid use

Gabapentin can cause serious, life-threatening breathing difficulties, especially if you already have lung disease or if you take it alongside opioid pain relief (such as morphine or codeine).

Mental health disorders

A small number of people treated with gabapentin have had thoughts of harming or killing themselves. You must seek immediate medical help if you notice any changes in your mood or suicidal thoughts.

Abrupt discontinuation

Do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly. Doing so can cause serious side effects, including an increase in seizure frequency or severe withdrawal symptoms. Your dose must be reduced gradually.

Asthma

Do not take naproxen if you have asthma that is sensitive to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as it can trigger a severe or life-threatening asthma attack.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take naproxen if you are more than 20 weeks pregnant. It can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and lead to complications during delivery.

Stomach ulcers or bleeding

Avoid naproxen if you have a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. It significantly increases the risk of serious stomach irritation and internal bleeding. Seek immediate medical help if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking gabapentin. Combining alcohol with gabapentin can significantly increase the risk of severe drowsiness, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. It may also impair your coordination and judgment more than usual.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking naproxen. Both alcohol and naproxen can irritate the lining of your stomach; combining them significantly increases your risk of developing stomach ulcers or internal bleeding.

Food (General)

You should always take naproxen with or just after a meal or a snack. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach pain.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.