Ketonal (Ketoprofen)

Ketonal is an NSAID indicated for conditions involving pain and inflammation of the musculoskeletal system.

• Musculoskeletal pain: alleviates pain and swelling in muscles, tendons and joints.
• Osteoarthritis: reduces joint discomfort and improves mobility in affected joints.
• Rheumatoid arthritis flare‑ups: helps control acute inflammation and pain during disease exacerbations.
• Soft‑tissue injuries: diminishes pain and inflammation associated with sprains, strains and bruises.
• Back pain: provides localized relief for lumbar muscle strain.
• Post‑operative pain: assists in managing superficial surgical site discomfort.

• Ketoprofen exerts its anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, fever and inflammation. By lowering prostaglandin levels at the site of application, ketoprofen reduces peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors, leading to diminished pain perception and swelling. The topical route allows the drug to act directly on the affected tissues while limiting systemic exposure.

Ketonal may cause adverse reactions, which are generally classified by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Application site burning or stinging.
• Redness or erythema at the site of use.
• Itching or mild skin irritation.
• Dryness or peeling of the skin.
• Headache.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Generalized allergic reaction including rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.
• Systemic NSAID effects like gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Liver or kidney function impairment.
• Cardiovascular events such as hypertension or thrombotic episodes.

When using Ketonal, consider the following precautions to minimise risk.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Monitor gastrointestinal risk: consider protective measures in patients with a history of ulcers.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if an allergic reaction occurs.
• Caution in cardiovascular disease: use only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Ketonal can interact with other medicines; awareness of the interaction level is important.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

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

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: possible changes in renal function.
• Lithium: ketoprofen may raise serum lithium concentrations.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance may increase methotrexate toxicity.