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Vimovo vs. Aleve

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Vimovo (naproxen/esomeprazole) and Aleve (naproxen sodium) are both medications used to treat pain and inflammation, particularly for conditions like arthritis. They both contain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). However, Vimovo is a combination medication that also contains esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), to help protect the stomach from ulcers caused by naproxen. Aleve, on the other hand, is available over-the-counter and only contains naproxen sodium. Vimovo is taken twice a day, while Aleve is typically taken every 8 to 12 hours. Vimovo requires a prescription, whereas Aleve can be purchased over-the-counter. Common side effects of both medications include an upset stomach and nausea. Both medications can also increase the risk of serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding, especially if taken with other NSAIDs or blood thinners.

Vimovo

(naproxen / esomeprazole)

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Naproxen sodium

(Aleve)

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Summary for Vimovo

Prescription only

Vimovo (naproxen / esomeprazole) is a combination medication for people age 12 years and older who have arthritis. It contains naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves arthritis symptoms like joint pain and swelling. This combination medication also contains the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) esomeprazole to protect against damage to the stomach from naproxen. Vimovo (naproxen / esomeprazole) is a tablet that's taken by mouth twice a day. Side effects can include inflammation of the stomach lining and diarrhea.

Indications for Vimovo

Pros and Cons for Vimovo

Pros

  • Works well to relieve pain and swelling from arthritis
  • Helps protect against stomach irritation and ulcers from naproxen without needing to take another pill

Cons

  • Must take twice a day, each time at least 30 minutes before a meal
  • Has many serious risks from both naproxen and esomeprazole ingredients
  • Less flexible for dose adjustments since it's a fixed combination of two ingredients

Common Side Effects for Vimovo

  • Inflammation of the stomach lining, leading to symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, and loss of appetite (gastritis, 17%)
  • Diarrhea (6%)

Warnings for Vimovo

  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Liver damage
  • High blood pressure, heart failure, and fluid buildup in the body
  • Kidney damage
  • Severe allergic reaction or skin reaction
  • Abnormal nutrient and electrolyte levels
  • Bone fracture
  • Lupus
  • Harm to unborn baby

Summary for Aleve

Prescription only

Over-the-counter naproxen sodium (Aleve) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It can be taken by adults and children ages 12 years and older to ease minor aches and pains, and to relieve fever. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) works by blocking certain proteins in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Naproxen sodium (Aleve) is taken by mouth, typically every 6 to 8 hours. Common side effects of this medication include stomach upset, dizziness, headache. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking naproxen sodium (Aleve) because doing so can worsen gut-related side effects.

Indications for Aleve

Pros and Cons for Aleve

Pros

  • Works well for treating pain and inflammation
  • Available over the counter (OTC) and as a lower-cost generic
  • Effects last longer than other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil)

Cons

  • OTC naproxen is only available as a tablet
  • Can raise your risk for bleeding
  • Might not be the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Aleve

  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

Warnings for Aleve

  • Stomach bleeding
  • Heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure and heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Not for use while pregnant or breastfeeding

Prices with our coupons for Vimovo vs. Aleve

Price Card Drug Icon
Naproxen/Esomeprazole DR60 tablets / 500mg/20mg
$128.03$2,289.03
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Naproxen Non-Prescription60 tablets / 220mg
$10.06-
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