Ketum (Ketoprofen)

Ketoprofen is indicated for inflammatory and pain‑related conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.

• Mild to moderate pain: provides analgesic relief for acute or chronic pain.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and improves mobility.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates joint pain and stiffness associated with degenerative changes.
• Musculoskeletal pain: diminishes inflammation and discomfort in muscles, tendons and ligaments.

• Ketoprofen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduced prostaglandin synthesis diminishes inflammation, pain signaling, and fever responses at sites of tissue injury. By limiting prostaglandin‑mediated vasodilation and sensitization of nociceptors, ketoprofen contributes to decreased edema and improved functional capacity in affected tissues. Overall, the drug’s COX inhibition underlies its analgesic and anti‑inflammatory properties.

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

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or vertigo: transient sensations of light‑headedness.
• Skin rash: mild erythema or itching.
• Edema: mild peripheral swelling.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding: potentially life‑threatening hemorrhage.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury or worsening of chronic kidney disease.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions: anaphylaxis, Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Blood dyscrasias: agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia.

When prescribing ketoprofen, clinicians should observe several precautionary measures to minimize risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding or NSAID use.
• Monitor renal function: check serum creatinine and urine output, especially in dehydration.
• Evaluate cardiovascular status: use cautiously in patients with hypertension or heart disease.
• Review concomitant medications: avoid concurrent use with anticoagulants or other NSAIDs.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consider potential risks and limit use unless benefits outweigh hazards.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C in the original packaging, protected from moisture.

Ketoprofen can interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): elevated risk of GI bleeding.
• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: possible reduction in renal function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Lithium: NSAIDs may raise lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of ulceration.
• Cyclosporine: increased nephrotoxicity.