Naproxen/Naproxen Sodium

Naproxen/Naproxen Sodium Interactions with Dietary Supplements

Copper
Supplementation with copper may enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of NSAIDs while reducing their ulcerogenic effects. One study found that when various anti-inflammatory drugs were chelated with copper, the anti-inflammatory activity was increased.¹ Animal models of inflammation have found that the copper chelate of aspirin was active at one-eighth the effective dose of aspirin. These copper complexes are less toxic than the parent compounds, as well.

Lithium
Lithium is a mineral that may be present in some supplements and is also used in large amounts to treat mood disorders such as manic-depression (bipolar disorder). Most NSAIDs inhibit the excretion of lithium from the body, resulting in higher blood levels of the mineral, though sulindac may have an opposite effect.² Since major changes in lithium blood levels can produce unwanted side effects or interfere with its efficacy, NSAIDs should be used with caution, and only under medical supervision, in people taking lithium supplements.

Iron
NSAIDs cause gastrointestinal (GI) irritation, bleeding, and iron loss.³ Iron supplements can cause GI irritation.⁴ However, iron supplementation is sometimes needed in people taking NSAIDs if those drugs have caused enough blood loss to lead to iron deficiency. If both iron and naproxen are prescribed, they should be taken with food to reduce GI irritation and bleeding risk.

Potassium
Naproxen has caused kidney problems and increased blood potassium levels, especially in older people.^{5 6} People taking naproxen should not supplement potassium without consulting with their doctor.

Sodium
Naproxen may cause sodium and water retention.⁷ It is healthful to reduce dietary salt intake by decreasing the use of table salt and avoiding heavily salted foods.