Can I take Hydroxychloroquine and Naproxen together?

Why this happens

Both medications can affect the lining of the stomach and the way the kidneys filter blood. While hydroxychloroquine is not a typical 'NSAID' like naproxen, combining them can sometimes increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects or affect kidney function, especially during long-term use.

What you should do

You can usually take these together, but you should be cautious. Always take these medicines with food to protect your stomach. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice signs of stomach bleeding, such as very dark/tarry stools or coffee-ground-like vomit. Your doctor may want to monitor your kidney function with occasional blood tests if you take these long-term.

Important precautions

Eye health (Retinopathy)

Long-term use can cause permanent damage to the back of the eye (the retina). You must have regular eye tests, usually once a year, to monitor your vision while taking hydroxychloroquine.

Heart rhythm disorders

Hydroxychloroquine can affect your heart rhythm, especially if taken with other medicines that affect the heart. Seek immediate medical help if you experience palpitations, fainting, or severe dizziness.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take naproxen if you are more than 20 weeks pregnant. It can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and lead to complications during delivery.

Asthma

Do not take naproxen if you have asthma that is sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs, as it can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack.

Stomach ulcers or bleeding

Naproxen significantly increases the risk of stomach ulcers and internal bleeding. Seek urgent medical help if you pass black, tarry stools or vomit blood.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking hydroxychloroquine. Both alcohol and hydroxychloroquine are processed by the liver; combining them can increase the risk of liver strain or damage. Additionally, alcohol may worsen potential side effects such as dizziness or stomach upset.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking naproxen. Both alcohol and naproxen can irritate the lining of your stomach; combining them significantly increases your risk of stomach ulcers and internal bleeding.

Food (General)

You should always take naproxen with or just after a meal or a snack. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion and stomach pain.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.