For many people suffering from occasional sleeplessness due to minor aches and pains, a dose of Aleve can provide a night of restful sleep. However, the exact reason for this effect depends on which version of the medication is being used. A standard Aleve caplet and an Aleve PM caplet are fundamentally different in their approach to improving sleep.
The Sedative Effect of Aleve PM
The most straightforward answer to why Aleve may help you sleep is that you are taking Aleve PM, which contains a dedicated sleep aid. Unlike standard Aleve, Aleve PM is a combination product with two active ingredients.
The Two Active Ingredients in Aleve PM
- Naproxen Sodium (220mg): As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), this is the pain-relieving component that is also in regular Aleve. It works by blocking the body's production of certain natural substances called prostaglandins, which play a direct role in pain and inflammation. By mitigating the underlying cause of pain, it allows for more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep.
- Diphenhydramine HCl (25mg): This is the ingredient that makes Aleve PM a sleep aid. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that causes drowsiness as a well-known side effect. It works by blocking histamine, a chemical in the brain that promotes wakefulness. This sedative effect is what helps induce and maintain sleep.
This combination is highly effective for those whose pain is preventing them from sleeping. It treats both the pain and the sleeplessness simultaneously, offering comprehensive relief for a night of rest.
The Side Effect of Regular Naproxen
For some individuals who take standard Aleve (naproxen sodium only), drowsiness can still occur, though it is considered a side effect rather than a primary intended effect. For most users, naproxen has no impact on alertness, but a small percentage may experience fatigue, dizziness, or drowsiness.
Why Some Experience Drowsiness from Naproxen Alone
- Individual Sensitivity: How a person's body metabolizes a medication can vary greatly. Some people are simply more sensitive to the central nervous system effects of NSAIDs like naproxen, which can lead to feelings of tiredness or confusion.
- Overdose or Higher Doses: Taking more than the recommended dosage, or being on a higher prescription strength, can increase the likelihood of experiencing central nervous system side effects such as drowsiness.
- Pain Relief Inducing Relaxation: For individuals with significant pain, the relief provided by naproxen can be enough to allow their bodies to finally relax and fall asleep. In this case, it's not a direct sedative effect of the drug, but rather a restorative response to the alleviation of discomfort.
Comparing Aleve and Aleve PM
To avoid confusion and ensure proper use, it is vital to understand the differences between the two products. Here is a comparison of regular Aleve and Aleve PM:
| Feature | Regular Aleve (Naproxen Sodium) | Aleve PM (Naproxen Sodium + Diphenhydramine) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Naproxen Sodium (220mg) | Naproxen Sodium (220mg) and Diphenhydramine HCl (25mg) |
| Purpose | Reduces pain, inflammation, and fever | Reduces pain and helps with occasional sleeplessness associated with minor aches |
| Mechanism for Sleep | Indirectly, by relieving pain, or as a rare side effect | Directly, through the sedative effect of diphenhydramine |
| Use Case | Day or night pain relief | Nighttime use only |
| Safety Considerations | Possible stomach bleeding, kidney issues | Avoid driving or operating machinery after taking. Increased risk of side effects in older adults. |
Important Considerations and Safety Precautions
Anyone relying on Aleve for sleep should exercise caution, particularly when using the PM version. Diphenhydramine can cause side effects beyond drowsiness, including dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, and confusion, especially in older adults. It is not intended for chronic use or for treating sleeplessness unrelated to pain. Taking more than the recommended dosage can be dangerous, with overdose symptoms including extreme fatigue and stomach bleeding.
Furthermore, Aleve PM should not be taken with alcohol, as it can intensify the side effects, including sleepiness. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems, should consult a healthcare provider before using Aleve PM.
Conclusion
In summary, Aleve helps with sleep primarily when a person takes the 'PM' version, which contains the sedative antihistamine diphenhydramine alongside the pain-relieving naproxen. While regular naproxen can cause drowsiness as a side effect in some sensitive individuals, this is not its intended purpose and does not happen for most people. Anyone seeking a sleep aid should opt for a product specifically formulated for nighttime use and always read the label carefully to understand the ingredients and potential risks. For consistent or severe sleep problems, consulting a healthcare provider is the best course of action.
