Aleve is an over-the-counter (OTC), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides temporary relief from minor aches and pains from a variety of conditions. It also temporarily reduces fever, such as that associated with common cold.
Aleve temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to:
- inflammation (swelling)
- stiffness
- minor arthritis pain
- headache
- muscular aches
- toothache
- backache
- menstrual cramps
It also temporarily reduces fever.
Aleve works by temporarily blocking the body's production of naturally occurring chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a direct role in pain.
Aleve belongs to a class of medication known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In addition to pain relief provided by a regular/common pain killer, anti-inflammatory painkillers also provide relief from inflammation (swelling).
