Can I take Naproxen and Sertraline together?

Why this happens

Sertraline (an SSRI antidepressant) can affect how platelets in your blood work to form clots. Naproxen (an NSAID painkiller) can irritate the lining of the stomach and also thins the blood slightly. When used together, these two effects combine, making a bleed in the digestive tract more likely.

Speak to your doctor before taking these together. They may suggest a different type of painkiller (like paracetamol) or prescribe a 'stomach protector' medicine (like omeprazole) to reduce the risk. Seek urgent medical help if you notice signs of a stomach bleed, such as black or tarry-looking stools, or if you vomit blood (which may look like coffee grounds).

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm

Sertraline can increase thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially when first starting the medicine or changing the dose. Tell someone you trust and contact your doctor immediately if your mood worsens or you have distressing thoughts.

Asthma

Do not take naproxen if you have asthma that is sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs, as it can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack or severe breathing difficulties.

Increased bleeding risk

Taking naproxen and sertraline together significantly increases your risk of serious bleeding, particularly in the stomach. Seek urgent medical help if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

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

Serotonin syndrome

Sertraline carries a risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, or muscle twitching, especially if taking other medicines that affect serotonin.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking sertraline. Combining alcohol with this medicine can increase side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It may also make your depression or anxiety symptoms worse.

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.

Grapefruit juice

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Sertraline can sometimes make you feel restless or jittery. Caffeine is a stimulant that may worsen these side effects or increase feelings of anxiety. If you notice these effects, you should limit your caffeine intake.

Food (General)

You should 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.

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.