Ketoprofen Pinewood Laboratories Limited (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen is an NSAID that acts locally on inflamed tissues to alleviate pain and swelling.

• Musculoskeletal pain: provides topical relief of pain associated with strains, sprains and overuse injuries.
• Osteoarthritis: reduces joint tenderness and stiffness in superficial joints such as the knee or hand.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (localized flare): diminishes localized inflammation and discomfort.
• Post‑operative wound pain: eases superficial surgical site discomfort after minor procedures.

• Ketoprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 enzymes in the skin, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By limiting prostaglandin production at the site of application, it reduces local vascular permeability, edema, and nociceptor activation, resulting in analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects.

Topical ketoprofen may cause skin‑related reactions and, rarely, systemic adverse events.

Common Side Effects

• Skin irritation: redness, itching, or burning at the application site.
• Dryness: localized dryness or peeling of the skin.
• Pruritus: mild itching without rash.
• Erythema: mild redness that resolves with continued use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic dermatitis: severe rash, swelling, or blistering requiring medical attention.
• Systemic NSAID effects: gastrointestinal upset, headache, or dizziness if absorbed in significant amounts.
• Photosensitivity: increased skin sensitivity to sunlight.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare but severe mucocutaneous reaction.
• Hepatic or renal impairment: unlikely but possible with extensive absorption.

When using topical ketoprofen, consider the following safety measures.

• Contraindications: avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to ketoprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Pregnancy & lactation: use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Skin integrity: do not apply to broken, infected, or ulcerated skin.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant systemic NSAID use to limit cumulative exposure.
• Monitoring: observe for signs of allergic reaction or systemic side effects.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Topical ketoprofen can interact with other medicines, especially systemic NSAIDs and anticoagulants.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic NSAIDs: concurrent use may increase risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and renal impairment.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): may enhance anticoagulant effect, raising bleeding risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: monitor renal function if both are used.
• Lithium: NSAID use can raise lithium levels; monitor serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: NSAIDs may reduce renal clearance of methotrexate, increasing toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: combined use may increase risk of skin thinning and ulceration.