Ketonal (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen is used in the management of inflammatory and pain conditions by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and pain, improving mobility and functional ability.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates chronic joint discomfort and stiffness, supporting daily activities.
• Post‑operative pain: provides effective analgesia following surgical procedures to enhance recovery.
• Musculoskeletal pain: relieves strain‑related aches and soreness in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• Acute mild to moderate pain: controls pain from injuries, dental procedures, or other short‑term sources.

• Ketoprofen exerts its anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes. This inhibition decreases the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, thereby reducing inflammation, pain signaling, and fever. The drug’s action is systemic after intramuscular or intravenous administration, providing rapid onset of effect. The reduction in prostaglandin levels also diminishes vascular permeability and leukocyte infiltration at sites of injury.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo: transient balance disturbances.
• Injection‑site reactions: pain, erythema, or swelling at the administration site.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration: potentially life‑threatening hemorrhage.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury or reduced renal function.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Severe hypersensitivity: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or anaphylaxis.

When using Ketoprofen, clinicians should evaluate patient risk factors and monitor for complications.

• Assess renal function: adjust use in patients with existing kidney disease.
• Monitor hepatic enzymes: avoid in severe liver impairment.
• Check for NSAID hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Use cautiously in the elderly: higher incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Avoid concurrent anticoagulants unless necessary: increased risk of bleeding.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Ketoprofen can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety, and should be reviewed before co‑administration.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs): heightened bleeding risk.
• Corticosteroids: increased ulceration and gastrointestinal complications.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: risk of renal impairment when combined.
• Lithium: ketoprofen may raise serum lithium concentrations.