Based on NIH | Is it safe to take naproxen at night after eating shrimp, or does seafood affect its absorption or increase the risk of side effects?

Taking naproxen at night after eating shrimp is generally considered safe for most people. There is no evidence that seafood (including shrimp or shellfish) meaningfully changes naproxen’s absorption or makes its side effects worse in otherwise healthy individuals. Naproxen can be taken with food to reduce stomach upset, and the presence of a meal does not substantially reduce how much naproxen your body absorbs. ^{[1] [2]}

What food does to naproxen

• Food can modestly affect the rate at which some pills enter your bloodstream, but for naproxen, the overall amount absorbed (bioavailability) is largely unchanged. Studies show naproxen’s absorption and total exposure are similar whether taken fasting or after a meal. ^{[3] [2]}
• Naproxen labeling for over‑the‑counter products advises taking it with food or milk if stomach upset occurs, which supports the practice of taking it after a meal. This guidance aims to reduce gastrointestinal irritation, not because food blocks naproxen’s effect. ^{[4] [5]}

Is seafood (shrimp) a special concern?

• There is no established interaction between naproxen and seafood components that would change naproxen’s effectiveness or safety. Naproxen’s main food-related considerations are general (meal timing, stomach comfort), not specific to seafood. ^[2]
• The key exception is allergy: if you have a known shellfish allergy and develop hives, swelling, or breathing trouble after shrimp, that reaction is due to the seafood, not naproxen; however, adding any NSAID during an active allergic reaction can complicate symptoms. If you’re experiencing an allergic reaction to shrimp, it’s safer to avoid NSAIDs until the reaction is assessed, and seek appropriate care. ^{[6] [7]}

Gastrointestinal safety tips

• NSAIDs like naproxen can irritate the stomach and, in some people, increase bleeding risk. Taking naproxen with food or milk can help reduce stomach upset. ^{[1] [4]}
• Stop use and seek medical advice if you notice warning signs such as feeling faint, vomiting blood, or black stools, as these can signal stomach bleeding. These warnings apply regardless of what you ate. ^{[1] [4]}

Cardiovascular and other precautions

• Like all NSAIDs, naproxen may carry heart and stroke risk, especially with higher doses or prolonged use. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time and avoid combining with other NSAIDs unless advised by a clinician. ^{[1] [4]}
• Talk with a healthcare professional if you take aspirin for heart protection, blood thinners, SSRIs/SNRIs, have ulcers, kidney problems, asthma with NSAID sensitivity, or past reactions to NSAIDs. Some medicines and conditions can increase the risk of side effects with naproxen. ^{[4] [5] [8]}

Practical guidance for your situation

• If you ate shrimp and feel well (no signs of allergy), you can take your usual naproxen dose at night. A meal does not substantially reduce naproxen’s overall absorption, and taking it with food may ease the stomach. ^{[3] [4]}
• If you feel any symptoms suggestive of a shrimp allergy (itching, hives, swelling, wheezing), avoid taking naproxen until you speak with a clinician, because NSAIDs can complicate evaluation and may worsen some allergic or asthma‑related reactions in sensitive individuals. Seek medical advice if allergy symptoms occur. ^{[6] [7]}

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Quick reference

• Food effects: Minimal impact on overall naproxen absorption; may slow rate slightly but not the amount absorbed. ^{[3] [2]}
• Seafood interaction: No specific interaction with naproxen; safety similar to other meals unless you have a shellfish allergy. ^[2]
• Label advice: Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs; be alert for stomach bleeding warning signs. ^{[1] [4]}

If you’re comfortable sharing, do you have any history of shellfish allergy or past stomach issues with pain relievers?