Ketoprofen
Brand names Alrheumat, Fenoket, Ketocid, Ketovail, Ketozip, Larafen, Orudis, Oruvail.
Used in the following combined preparations None
General Information
Ketoprofen is one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAlDs). Like other drugs of this group, it relieves pain and reduces inflammation and stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. However, this drug only relieves the symptoms; it does not cure the underlying disease.
Ketoprofen is also given to relieve mild to moderate pain of menstruation
and soft tissue injuries, and the pain that occurs following operations.
The most common adverse reactions to ketoprofen, as with all NSAIDs, are gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and indigestion. Switching to another NSAID may be recommended by your doctor if unwanted effects are persistent or troublesome.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
Information for Users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, capsules, injection, suppositories.
Frequency and timing of doses
3-4 x daily with food (by mouth); 2 x daily (suppositories); 6 x daily for up to 3 days (injection).
Adult dosage range
150-200mg daily.
Onset of effect
Pain relief may be felt in 30 minutes to 2 hours. Full anti-inflammatory effect may not be felt for up to 2 weeks.
Duration of action
Up to 8-12 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 4 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Seek medical advice before stopping the drug.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. Large overdoses may cause vomiting, confusion, or irritability. Notify your doctor.
Possible Adverse Effects
Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, abdominal pain, and indigestion, commonly occur with ketoprofen when taken by mouth.
Suppositories may cause rectal irritation. Black or bloodstained faeces should be reported promptly.
Interactions
General note
Ketoprofen interacts with a wide range of drugs, such as other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including aspirin, oral anticoagulants, and corticosteroids, to increase the risk of bleeding and/or stomach ulcers.
Probenecid
This drug raises blood levels of ketoprofen.
Methotrexate
Ketoprofen may raise blood levels of methotrexate, leading to an increased risk of adverse effects.
Antihypertensive drugs
The beneficial effects of these drugs may be reduced by ketoprofen.
Special Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You have heart problems.
You have high blood pressure.
You have asthma.
You have had a peptic ulcer, oesophagitis, or acid indigestion.
You have bleeding problems.
You are allergic to aspirin.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended for children under 12 years.
Over 60
Increased likelihood of adverse effects. Reduced dose may therefore be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how ketoprofen affects you because the drug can cause dizziness and drowsiness.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach disorders with ketoprofen.
Surgery and general anaesthetics
Ketoprofen may prolong bleeding. Discuss this with your doctor or dentist before having any surgery.
Prolonged Use
There is an increased risk of bleeding from peptic ulcers and in the bowel with prolonged use of ketoprofen.
