Ketoproxin (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen acts on inflammatory pathways and is indicated for several painful and inflammatory conditions.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and pain, improving mobility.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates chronic joint discomfort and stiffness.
• Musculoskeletal pain: provides relief for strains, sprains and back pain.
• Mild to moderate pain: manages acute pain from injuries or postoperative settings.
• Inflammatory conditions: controls inflammation in conditions such as bursitis and tendonitis.

• Ketoprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. By decreasing prostaglandin synthesis, it reduces inflammation, pain signaling, and fever responses at the site of tissue injury or disease.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal discomfort.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Skin rash or pruritus.
• Elevated liver enzymes detected on laboratory testing.
• Fluid retention or mild edema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer perforation.
• Severe renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Anaphylactic or severe hypersensitivity reactions.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Hepatotoxicity with jaundice or hepatitis.

When prescribing or dispensing Ketoproxin, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Monitor renal function: use caution in those with existing kidney disease or dehydration.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity to ketoprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Exercise caution in elderly patients due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ketoprofen can interact with several drug classes, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: synergistic risk of ulceration and bleeding.
• Lithium: may raise serum lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: can diminish renal protective effects and worsen kidney function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: may reduce renal perfusion, requiring monitoring of kidney function.
• Methotrexate: ketoprofen can decrease clearance, raising toxicity risk.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: combined use may increase bleeding tendency.
• Alcohol: additive gastrointestinal irritation and ulcer risk.
• Beta‑blockers: may blunt antihypertensive response, necessitating blood pressure checks.