pmr

[43086]

is it ok to take alive for shoulders and arms hurting

[PMRpro Ambassador]

If you are on pred, no it isn't advised to take Aleve (I presume that is what you mean, also called naproxen) as it is an NSAID, a non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug. NSAIDs and corticosteroids are each irritant to the stomach and can lead to gastric bleeding, taking both together the risk is far higher. I know the manufacturers of Aleve claim it is LESS irritant - that doesn't mean NON-irritant.

If you have been diagnosed with PMR and put on pred then the chances are you are on too low a dose if you still have aching shoulders and arms. Most people find that other painkillers do very little in PMR and pred acts as the painkiller by reducing the inflammation and resultant swelling which is what causes the pain. Discuss this with your doctor.