About ketoprofen

Ketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and works by preventing the production of chemicals which cause pain and inflammation in the body. It is used to relieve pain and swelling in sprains, strains, backache, gout and rheumatic diseases. Ketoprofen can also be used for pain relief after bone surgery and for period (menstrual) pain.

Ketoprofen may be used alone or alongside medicines such as omeprazole which help protect against stomach irritation.

Ketoprofen is also available as a gel to be applied directly to the skin to help relieve muscle and joint pain. There is more information about this in a separate leaflet called "Ketoprofen (topical)".

Before taking or using ketoprofen

Before taking or using ketoprofen make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are 65 years of age or older.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have asthma or any other allergic disorder.
• If you have ever had a stomach or duodenal ulcer.
• If you have heart problems.
• If you have ever had blood clotting problems.
• If you have blood in your stools.
• If you have systemic lupus erythematosus (an inflammatory condition also called lupus or SLE).
• If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to any other NSAID (this includes aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac and indometacin) or to any other medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take or use ketoprofen

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take or use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take or use ketoprofen at the same time(s) each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take or use it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take or use two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

If you have been prescribed ketoprofen capsules:

• Take ketoprofen capsules with a glass of milk, a meal or just after eating some food.
• If you are taking the modified-release capsules, these must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed, otherwise they may release the drug too quickly and cause side-effects.
• Your doctor will try to prescribe you the lowest dose for the shortest time so that you do not suffer from side-effects. If you need to take ketoprofen for a long time, your doctor may want to prescribe another medicine along with it to protect your stomach from irritation.

If you have been prescribed ketoprofen suppositories:

• If the suppository is too soft, it may be chilled in the refrigerator or under cold running water before unwrapping. Remove the wrapping and moisten the suppository with water. Lie on your left side (if you are right-handed) and draw your knees up towards your chest, with the right leg drawn up more than the left.
• Using your index finger or middle finger, gently push the suppository into your rectum (back passage) as far as possible, pointed end first.
• Lower your legs to a comfortable position to help you to hold the suppository in place.
• Always wash you hands after use.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Ketoprofen may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Do not use sunbeds, and avoid direct sunlight or use a sun cream with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher until you know how your skin reacts.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with ketoprofen.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointments so your progress can be monitored.

Can ketoprofen cause problems

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you experience any of the following, speak with your doctor or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay:

• Any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestine, such as blood in vomit or dark stools.
• Any shortness of breath or swelling of the mouth or face.
• Blistering, peeling or bleeding of the skin, with or without a rash.
• Chest pain or a sudden severe headache.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store ketoprofen

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines