Are you seeking relief from pain and inflammation caused by arthritis or other conditions? If so, ketoprofen might be the answer you’ve been looking for. But before you dive into this treatment, it’s vital to understand its potential benefits, side effects, and precautions. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about using ketoprofen.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Ketoprofen is an NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation.
It can cause mild to severe side effects, including life-threatening conditions. Seek medical help if experiencing any symptoms.
Before taking ketoprofen, discuss potential risks with a healthcare professional and consider alternative treatments for persistent or severe side effects.
Understanding Ketoprofen
Ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that offers relief from pain and inflammation caused by various medical conditions. When used as prescribed, it can help improve your quality of life by alleviating discomfort. However, there are potential risks associated with its use, such as an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding.
You should consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if ketoprofen is the right choice for you.
What is Ketoprofen?
Ketoprofen belongs to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) family, specifically the propionic acid class. Initially patented in 1967 and approved for medical use in 1980, ketoprofen has been widely used to treat pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and dysmenorrhea.
It is available in various forms, including immediate-release and extended-release capsules, providing options tailored to your specific needs.
How Does It Work?
Ketoprofen works by inhibiting the activity of cyclo-oxygenase I and II enzymes, which leads to decreased production of prostaglandins and thromboxanes precursors. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that play a key role in inflammation and pain. Elevated levels of prostaglandins are generated in response to injury or infection, causing inflammation and pain.
Ketoprofen effectively reduces inflammation and pain by decreasing prostaglandin levels, offering a way to relieve pain for those suffering from various conditions.
Common Uses
Ketoprofen is a medication primarily used to treat pain or inflammation in the body. It is effective for treating mild to moderate arthritis, as well as menstrual pain. It has been proven effective in providing relief for these conditions, helping patients regain a sense of normalcy and comfort in their daily lives.
However, ketoprofen may be used for other purposes not outlined in the medication guide. Therefore, consulting with your doctor to determine its suitability for your specific needs is advisable.
Ketoprofen Side Effects
Like any medication, being aware of the potential side effects associated with ketoprofen is crucial. Some side effects are common and relatively mild, while others can be severe and warrant immediate medical attention. Understanding these side effects can help you recognize when to seek help from a healthcare professional.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of ketoprofen include stomach pain, dizziness, and headache. Gastrointestinal issues like upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain may also occur, along with headaches, dizziness, and drowsiness. While most of these side effects are mild, vigilance is key to spotting any signs of an allergic reaction to ketoprofen, such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, hives, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the face or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects of ketoprofen are less common but can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. These may include heart attack, stroke, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Signs of a heart attack or stroke while taking ketoprofen may include chest pain radiating to the jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative to seek emergency medical attention.
Gastrointestinal bleeding, another severe side effect, can be indicated by symptoms such as blood in vomit, bloody, black, or tarry stools, bleeding from the rectum, and stomach pain. Liver problems may also arise, with signs including abdominal pain or tenderness, pale stools, dark urine, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow eyes or skin. Should you experience any of these severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Learn more, visit Ketoprofen Serious Side Effects.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should seek medical help if side effects worsen or persist. In the case of a serious allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, hives, fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, or itching, immediate medical attention is necessary. Additionally, if you experience persistent stomach pain, heartburn, bloody vomiting, rash, itching, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling of your hands, face, or mouth, or severe headache that doesn’t go away, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional without delay.
Precautions and Warnings
Before taking ketoprofen, be aware of potential risks and precautions associated with its use. Ketoprofen may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding, so it’s crucial to discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.
Certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors may also increase your risk of side effects, thus informing your healthcare professional of any relevant information is necessary.
Heart-Related Risks
Ketoprofen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially when used for extended periods, in high doses, or if the individual has a history of heart disease. Potential signs of a heart attack or stroke while taking ketoprofen may include chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness in one part or side of the body, slurred speech, and swelling of the face or throat. It is essential to seek emergency medical attention if any of these symptoms are present.
Gastrointestinal Risks
Gastrointestinal risks associated with ketoprofen usage include stomach bleeding and ulcers. Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding may include blood in vomit, bloody, black, or tarry stools, bleeding from the rectum, and stomach pain.
To reduce the risk of stomach bleeding, it is recommended to limit alcohol consumption and cease smoking while taking ketoprofen.
Allergy Concerns
Allergic reactions to ketoprofen can be severe and potentially fatal. Individuals with aspirin-sensitive asthma should not use ketoprofen, as it may result in a fatal allergic reaction. Signs of a severe allergic reaction may include:
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Rash
Itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
Severe dizziness
Difficulty breathing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Who Should Avoid Ketoprofen?
Certain individuals should avoid taking ketoprofen or use it with caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children and adolescents, and individuals with specific medical conditions may be at a higher risk of side effects and should consult their healthcare professional before using ketoprofen.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using ketoprofen. Animal studies have indicated potential risks to the fetus, such as:
Fetal toxicity
Ductus arteriosus constriction
Increased risk of miscarriage
Increased risk of pre- and post-implantation loss
Increased risk of gastroschisis
Ketoprofen can also affect the baby’s kidney development and function and may prolong labor and delivery. It is generally not recommended to use ketoprofen during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Breastfeeding mothers should also exercise caution when considering ketoprofen, as it is unclear whether it is safe for breastfeeding. Although ketoprofen can be found in very low levels in breast milk, it is generally considered safe, but potential benefits and risks should be weighed before using the medication.
Children and Adolescents
The safety and efficacy of ketoprofen in children and adolescents have not been established. It is generally not recommended for use in individuals under the age of 18 due to the potential risk of:
stomach/intestinal bleeding
kidney problems
heart attack
stroke
However, some healthcare professionals may consider ketoprofen for children and adolescents on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific needs and condition of the patient.
Medical Conditions to Consider
Individuals with certain medical conditions should avoid ketoprofen or use it with caution. These conditions include:
Stomach or intestinal ulcers, bleeding, or holes
High blood pressure
Liver disease
Kidney problems or kidney disease
History of stroke
Heart disease
Anemia
Bleeding problems
Blood clots
Congestive heart failure
Edema
People with these conditions should consult their healthcare professional before taking ketoprofen.
Ketoprofen Dosage Guidelines
When taking ketoprofen, follow the dosage guidelines provided by your healthcare professional. The dosage of ketoprofen is determined based on the strength of the medicine, the medical condition it is being used to treat, and the individual patient.
The following sections outline the general dosage guidelines for specific conditions.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
For adults with rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended dosage of ketoprofen is 75 milligrams (mg) three times a day, or 50 mg four times a day, with the dose potentially being increased as needed. Regular clinical monitoring is necessary during ketoprofen treatment to assess the patient’s condition and evaluate their response to the medication. If side effects occur or persist, consult with your doctor to determine if an adjustment in dosage is necessary.
Osteoarthritis
For adults with osteoarthritis, the recommended dosage of ketoprofen is:
25 to 50 milligrams (mg) every 6 to 8 hours as needed
Some individuals may require up to 75 mg every 6 to 8 hours
Elderly or debilitated patients should use a lower initial dose, with the maximum daily dose not to exceed 200 mg.
As with rheumatoid arthritis, regular clinical monitoring is necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Menstrual Pain
For adults experiencing menstrual pain, the recommended dosage of ketoprofen is 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) every 6 to 8 hours as needed. In some cases, a dosage of up to 75 mg every 6 to 8 hours may be prescribed. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosing instructions and to monitor your condition while taking ketoprofen for menstrual pain.
Managing Missed Doses and Overdose
Take your ketoprofen medication as prescribed by your healthcare professional. However, if you happen to miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
In the event of a ketoprofen overdose, immediate action is necessary. If the individual has experienced serious symptoms, such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, call 911. Take immediate action in case of any poisoning. Contact a poison control center as soon as possible. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. For Canadians, they can dial their provincial poison control center for help. Possible symptoms of an overdose can be quite severe. These may involve intense stomach pain, shallow or slow breathing, extreme drowsiness, and seizures.
Interactions with Other Medications
Interactions between ketoprofen and other medications could lead to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness. Certain medications that may interact with ketoprofen include:
Aliskiren
ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin II receptor blockers
Cidofovir
Corticosteroids
Lithium
Methotrexate
It is important to inform your doctor of all medications, vitamins, or herbs you are currently taking to prevent drug interactions and ensure the safety and efficacy of your treatment.
Before taking ketoprofen, discuss potential interactions with certain foods, alcohol, or tobacco with your healthcare professional. Your doctor should manage all medications accordingly to minimize the risk of adverse effects and ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.
Traveling with Ketoprofen
Take certain precautions when traveling with ketoprofen to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your medication. Here are some tips:
Store the medication in a sealed container.
Ensure it is kept at room temperature and away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
Do not freeze ketoprofen.
It is advised to always carry your medication with you in your carry-on bag when flying and not to put it in a checked bag.
If you’re traveling to a sunny destination, ketoprofen may make you more susceptible to the sun’s rays. To protect yourself, follow these precautions:
Limit your exposure to the sun
Avoid using tanning booths and sunlamps
Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors
Be vigilant for any rash, itching, or other signs of an allergic reaction to ketoprofen
Clinical Monitoring and Alternative Treatments
Clinical monitoring forms a critical part of ketoprofen treatment. It helps assess the patient’s condition and evaluate their response to the medication. Regular monitoring may include:
Measuring ketoprofen levels in plasma samples using HPLC
Evaluating the benefits of ketoprofen administration through studies on specific conditions or patient groups
Routine clinical testing to assess safety and efficacy.
If side effects occur or persist, consult with your doctor to determine if an adjustment in dosage is necessary. In some cases, alternative treatments may be considered for moderate pain management. For instance, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be suggested, depending on the specific needs and condition of the patient.
Summary
Ketoprofen is a valuable medication for alleviating pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis and menstrual pain. However, it’s important to understand its potential side effects, precautions, and dosage guidelines to ensure safe and effective treatment. By consulting with a healthcare professional and adhering to the prescribed dosage, you can maximize the benefits of ketoprofen while minimizing the risks.
Whether you’re considering ketoprofen for the first time or have been using it for a while, this guide has provided you with the essential information you need to make informed decisions about your treatment. Stay vigilant for any side effects and maintain open communication with your healthcare professional to ensure the best possible outcomes for your health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was ketoprofen taken off the market?
Unfortunately, Orudis KT (ketoprofen) was taken off the market in 2005 due to potential risks associated with its use such as an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, irritation, or bleeding in the stomach and intestines.
What is the drug ketoprofen used for?
Ketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain from various conditions such as dental pain, menstrual cramps, muscle aches, and joint stiffness caused by arthritis. It is also available in capsule and extended release forms with a doctor’s prescription.
Is ketoprofen a strong painkiller?
Ketoprofen has been shown to be effective at relieving moderate to severe pain, and is used to treat mild to moderate pain such as menstrual cramps or arthritis. Therefore, it can be considered a strong painkiller.
Is ketoprofen same as ibuprofen?
Ketoprofen has been shown to have a stronger effect than ibuprofen, indicating it has a better benefit–risk ratio and is more suitable for relieving moderate-to-severe pain. Therefore, ketoprofen is not the same as ibuprofen.
What conditions can ketoprofen help treat?
Ketoprofen is an effective treatment for pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, as well as mild to moderate pain and menstrual cramps.
