Ketum (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen acts locally to alleviate pain and inflammation in the musculoskeletal system.

• Musculoskeletal pain: provides topical analgesia and reduces discomfort in joints and muscles.
• Soft‑tissue inflammation: diminishes swelling and erythema in sprains, strains and bruises.
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: helps control pain and stiffness associated with degenerative joint disease.
• Post‑operative superficial pain: eases localized discomfort after minor skin‑level procedures.

• Ketoprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑1, COX‑2) enzymes in peripheral tissues, leading to reduced synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate pain, fever and inflammation. By limiting prostaglandin production at the site of application, the drug decreases vascular permeability, edema, and nociceptor sensitisation, resulting in localized analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects without substantial systemic exposure.

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

Common Side Effects

• Local burning or stinging sensation at the application site.
• Mild erythema or redness of the skin.
• Itching or pruritus.
• Dryness or peeling of the treated area.
• Contact dermatitis limited to the area of use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis with extensive rash.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Systemic NSAID effects such as gastrointestinal ulceration.
• Renal impairment or reduced kidney function.
• Cardiovascular events including hypertension or thrombotic episodes.

Before using Ketum, consider the following safety measures.

• Hypersensitivity: avoid if you have known allergy to ketoprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Broken skin: do not apply on open wounds, cuts or abrasions.
• Cardiovascular risk: use with caution in patients with heart disease or hypertension.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: monitor function and limit duration of use.
• Concomitant NSAIDs: avoid using other topical or oral NSAIDs simultaneously.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ketum can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Systemic corticosteroids: amplified ulcer risk.
• Lithium therapy: potential increase in lithium levels.
• Methotrexate: enhanced methotrexate toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function.
• Diuretics: may affect electrolyte balance.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): modest increase in bleeding tendency.
• Antihypertensive agents: potential attenuation of blood‑pressure control.
• Beta‑blockers: monitor for any change in cardiovascular response.