Ketoprofen belongs to the propionic acid class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the body. Ketoprofen is available as a prescription drug in oral capsule and extended-release forms.

Ketoprofen Uses

Ketoprofen is used to:

  • Relieve pain from various conditions
  • Reduce arthritis pain, swelling, and joint stiffness
  • Act as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) by blocking the production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation in the body

Quick Highlight of Its Benefits:

  • Effective for both acute and chronic pain
  • Reduces inflammation, swelling, and stiffness
  • Available in fast-acting oral and topical formulations

Conditions Ketoprofen Is Used to Treat:

  • Headache
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Muscle pain, back pain, and joint stiffness
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Postoperative pain

How Does Ketoprofen Work?

Ketoprofen works by:

  • Inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes
  • Reducing the production of prostaglandins, substances responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation

In simple terms, Ketoprofen blocks pain and inflammation signals at the source.

How to Use Ketoprofen Oral Capsules

Before taking this medicine, read all directions on the product package, the Medication Guide, and the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist.

  • Take orally, usually 3 times a day with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters), or as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid lying down for at least 5 to 10 minutes after taking the capsule.
  • If stomach problems occur, take with food or milk to minimize side effects.
  • To reduce the risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, use at the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible time.
  • Do not increase your dose, frequency, or duration without consulting your doctor.
  • For migraine headaches, if pain persists or worsens after the first dose, seek medical attention immediately.
  • It may take up to 2 weeks for arthritis treatment to show full benefits. Continue as directed by your doctor.

Dosage of Ketoprofen

Typical Dosage Instructions (As Per Doctor's Advice):

Oral:

  • Adults: 50-100 mg up to 3 times a day, depending on severity
  • For arthritis: 200 mg/day in divided doses
  • Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset

Topical:

  • Apply a thin layer 2-3 times daily to affected area

Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and do not exceed the maximum recommended dose.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If it's near the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What Happens in Case of Overdose?

Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Seizures (in rare cases)

Contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical help immediately

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Ketoprofen Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Upset stomach
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Drowsiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache

Serious side effects:

  • Fainting
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Changes in hearing, vision, mental/mood, or stomach pain

Precautions and Warnings

  • Inform your doctor if allergic to ketoprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, or if you have any allergies.
  • Discuss any medical conditions with your doctor, especially asthma, bleeding disorders, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, or kidney problems.
  • NSAIDs like ketoprofen can cause kidney problems, particularly in dehydrated individuals or those with heart failure.
  • Avoid alcohol, which can increase dizziness while taking ketoprofen.
  • This medication may increase sun sensitivity; use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors.

Use With Caution In:

  • Elderly patients
  • People with high blood pressure or heart disease
  • Pregnant women (especially in the third trimester)
  • Individuals with asthma or bleeding disorders

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Ketoprofen?

  • Generally not recommended for children under 18 without medical supervision
  • Elderly may require lower doses to reduce side effect risk

Alcohol or Food Interactions

Alcohol:
  • Avoid alcohol during treatment
  • Increases risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding
Food:
  • Take with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal irritation

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Discuss all medications, supplements, or herbs you take with your doctor to avoid harmful interactions that could affect ketoprofen's effectiveness.

May Interact With:

  • Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) - increased bleeding risk
  • Other NSAIDs - higher chance of side effects
  • Corticosteroids - GI irritation or ulcer risk
  • Antihypertensives (ACE inhibitors, diuretics) - reduced effectiveness
  • Methotrexate or lithium - toxicity risk may increase

How Should Ketoprofen Be Stored?

Recommended Storage:

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F)
  • Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct light

What Happens If Not Stored Properly?

  • May lose effectiveness or become unsafe
  • Topical forms may separate or change color/texture

Ketoprofen vs. Ibuprofen

Ketoprofen Ibuprofen
Used to relieve pain and reduce arthritis symptoms. Used for pain, fever, inflammation, menstrual pain, migraines, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Common Side Effects: Upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness. Common Side Effects: Abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, heartburn, nausea, swelling.

References

Postoperative analgesia in the cat after ovariohysterectomy by use of carprofen, ketoprofen, meloxicam or tolfenamic acid
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Frequently Asked Questions

According to a meta-analysis, ketoprofen is more effective than ibuprofen in treating rheumatoid arthritis pain at therapeutic doses.

No, ketoprofen and ibuprofen belong to the same class of drugs (NSAIDs) but are different compounds. They are both used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.

Ketoprofen may cause side effects like drowsiness, but it varies among individuals. Other possible side effects include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, lightheadedness, appetite loss, or headache.

Ketoprofen gel can be applied to the skin up to seven days for sore or inflamed areas. It is typically applied two to four times daily, with a normal daily maximum dose of 15 grams.

The maximum daily dose of ketoprofen is 300 mg for Orudis and 200 mg for Oruvail. Higher doses are not recommended unless advised by a doctor.

Ketoprofen has a short half-life of fewer than 2 hours in most species, but its effects can last up to 24 hours.

Ketoprofen may increase blood pressure, so regular monitoring is recommended during use. Prolonged use can also lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding.

Yes, ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps alleviate inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with arthritis.

Ketoprofen is effective in treating arthritis (both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis) by reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms like joint pain and stiffness.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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