Ketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of molecules responsible for pain, fever and inflammation.
What is Ketoprofen?
Ketoprofen may be prescribed by a doctor to reduce pain, swelling and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other disorders associated with pain, such as ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, and gout.
It can also be taken without prescription to deal with less severe pain such as headaches, menstrual pains, chills, muscle aches, back pain and lower fever.
How should Ketoprofen be taken?
Ketoprofen may be taken in the form of capsules, prolonged-release capsules, tablets, granules for oral suspension and granules for dissolution suspension under the tongue. It can be taken as needed or regularly, following a doctor's instructions and typically on a full stomach.
Side effects associated with Ketoprofen
Possible side effects of Ketoprofen include the following:
- Ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Tinnitus
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if the drug triggers:
- Difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing
- Difficult or painful urination
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Fever
- Swelling of eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, hands, feet, ankles or calves
- Jaundice
- Bruising or unjustified bleeding
- Back ache
- Lack of energy
- Nausea
- Urticaria
- Pallor
- Loss of appetite
- Unjustified weight loss
- Vision problems
- Itching
- Rash
- Hoarseness
- Flu-like symptoms
- Extreme fatigue
- Opaque colorless or blood containing urine
- Blisters
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Ketoprofen
Taking ketoprofen increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Before taking ketoprofen, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, NSAIDs or any other medication
- If you are taking any medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, anti-diabetic medication, methotrexate, phenytoin, probenecid, and sulfa antibiotics
- If you suffer or have suffered from asthma (especially when associated with frequent episodes of runny nose or nasal polyps), swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles or calves, as well as kidney or liver disease
- If you are pregnant or breast-feeding
In any case, it is important to inform surgeons or dentists of any ongoing treatment with Ketoprofen.
