Ketodipil (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen is indicated for conditions involving pain and inflammation, particularly within the musculoskeletal and rheumatic disease spectrum.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint pain, swelling and stiffness, improving functional ability.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates chronic joint discomfort and enhances mobility.
• Musculoskeletal pain: provides rapid relief of acute strains, sprains and overuse injuries.
• Dysmenorrhea: diminishes menstrual cramp intensity and associated pelvic pain.
• General pain: manages mild to moderate nociceptive pain from various causes.
• Inflammation: controls localized inflammatory responses in soft tissues and joints.
• Post‑operative pain: assists in managing pain after minor surgical procedures.

• Ketoprofen exerts its anti‑inflammatory and analgesic actions by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition reduces the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby decreasing prostaglandin‑mediated inflammation, pain signalling and fever. The drug also modestly impairs platelet aggregation through COX‑1 blockade. By lowering prostaglandin E2 levels, ketoprofen diminishes vascular permeability and sensitisation of nociceptors, contributing to its therapeutic effect in acute and chronic inflammatory states.

Ketoprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe, that are typical of non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Skin rash or mild itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes without clinical symptoms.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Upper gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Severe renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Anaphylactic reactions including bronchospasm and angio‑edema.
• Hepatotoxicity with jaundice or hepatitis.

When using Ketodipil, several safety considerations should be observed to minimise risk.

• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid use in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or bleeding.
• Cardiovascular caution: use carefully in individuals with established heart disease or hypertension.
• Renal monitoring: assess kidney function before and during therapy, especially in the elderly.
• Concomitant drugs: review all NSAIDs, anticoagulants and corticosteroids for additive effects.
• Pregnancy and lactation: avoid unless clearly indicated by a healthcare professional.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Ketoprofen can interact with several drug classes, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): additive bleeding risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Diuretics: potential for reduced antihypertensive effect.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can raise lithium serum levels, requiring monitoring.