Ketonal Fast (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen acts on inflammatory pathways and is indicated for several pain‑related and musculoskeletal conditions.

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for acute or chronic pain episodes.
• Osteoarthritis: reduces joint pain and improves functional mobility.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: helps control inflammatory joint pain and swelling.
• Musculoskeletal injuries: alleviates pain and inflammation associated with sprains, strains and tendonitis.

• Ketoprofen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduction in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors, leading to decreased pain perception and attenuation of inflammation in affected tissues. Additionally, the drug’s inhibition of COX enzymes reduces edema formation and limits the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the site of injury.

Ketoprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo: transient sensations of imbalance.
• Skin reactions: rash or mild itching.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Severe hepatic injury: jaundice or elevated liver enzymes.
• Renal impairment: reduced urine output or acute kidney injury.
• Anaphylactic reactions: swelling of face, throat or difficulty breathing.

When prescribing Ketoprofen, clinicians should consider several precautionary measures to minimise risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers or bleeding before use.
• Monitor renal function: check creatinine and urine output in patients with kidney disease.
• Evaluate hepatic status: avoid in patients with active liver disease or elevated enzymes.
• Use caution in cardiovascular disease: NSAIDs may increase thrombotic risk.
• Avoid in late pregnancy: potential fetal complications.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, protect from moisture and light in original packaging.

Ketoprofen can interact with other medicines, influencing efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): elevated risk of GI bleeding.
• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: possible reduction in renal function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Lithium: NSAIDs may raise lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of ulceration.
• Antihypertensives: possible attenuation of blood pressure control.