Ketospray (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen is used topically to address inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions by inhibiting prostaglandin‑mediated pain pathways.

• Musculoskeletal pain: provides analgesic relief for mild to moderate pain in muscles, joints and tendons.
• Sprains and strains: reduces swelling and discomfort associated with ligament and muscle injuries.
• Soft‑tissue inflammation: diminishes inflammatory response in bruises, contusions and other soft‑tissue lesions.

• Ketoprofen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 enzymes, blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. This reduction in prostaglandin synthesis lowers inflammation, pain and fever at the site of application, while topical delivery concentrates the action locally with limited systemic exposure.

Topical ketoprofen may cause local and systemic adverse reactions, although most are mild.

Common Side Effects

• Application site irritation: burning, stinging or itching at the site of use.
• Redness or erythema: mild skin reddening where the spray is applied.
• Dryness or peeling: localized skin dryness or flaking.
• Pruritus: occasional itching of the treated area.
• Headache: transient mild headache in some users.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: mild nausea or dyspepsia.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions: angioedema, anaphylaxis or Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Systemic NSAID effects: gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function, especially with extensive use.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of heart attack or stroke in susceptible individuals.
• Hepatotoxicity: rare liver enzyme elevations.
• Blood disorders: thrombocytopenia or anemia.

When using Ketospray, consider the following safety measures.

• Pregnancy: avoid use unless the prescriber determines that benefits outweigh potential risks, as safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: exercise caution; limited information is available on excretion in breast milk.
• Concomitant NSAIDs: using other NSAIDs may increase the risk of systemic side effects.
• Skin integrity: do not apply to broken, infected or irritated skin.
• Cardiovascular disease: use with caution in patients with a history of heart disease or stroke.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ketoprofen can interact with several drug classes; awareness of these interactions helps minimize risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Systemic corticosteroids: heightened potential for gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: additive toxicity and increased adverse effect profile.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal function, especially in volume‑depleted patients.
• Diuretics: potential for renal impairment when combined with NSAIDs.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can raise lithium serum levels, necessitating monitoring.