Ketoprofen

About ketoprofen

Ketoprofen belongs to the group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ketoprofen is used to relieve pain and swelling in sprains, strains, backache and rheumatic diseases. It can also be used for pain relief after bone surgery and in those suffering from gout, or for period (menstrual) pain.
Ketoprofen works by preventing the production of chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

Before taking ketoprofen

Before taking ketoprofen make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver problems.
• If you suffer from kidney problems.
• If you suffer from heart problems.
• If you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure).
• If you suffer from SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus).
• If you suffer from rhinitis.
• If you suffer from asthma or breathing problems.
• If you have ever had an unusual reaction from taking aspirin or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, diclofenac or indometacin).
• If you suffer from indigestion, heartburn or any other digestive or bowel problems.
• If you have ever suffered from a stomach ulcer.
• If you have ever had blood clotting problems.

How to use ketoprofen

HOW TO USE YOUR SUPPOSITORIES:

1. 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 reverse if left handed); draw your knees up towards your chest, with the top leg drawn up more than the bottom leg.
2. Use your forefinger (index finger) or the middle finger, whichever you find easier, gently push the suppository into the rectum (back passage), pointed end first.
3. The suppository should be inserted as far as possible, pushing the end of the suppository sideways to ensure contact with the bowel.
4. Lower your legs to a comfortable position to help you hold the suppository in place.

HOW TO TAKE TABLETS:

• Take the tablets with or straight after food; so that they do not irritate the stomach.
• Take the medicine with a full glass of water. Also, do not lie down for about 15 to 30 minutes after taking the medicine. This helps to prevent it sticking in the throat and causing irritation.
• If you have been prescribed modified release tablets that slowly release drug to give a more even effect, do not crush or chew them as this may be harmful, causing too much medicine to be absorbed too quickly.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your doctor will try and give you the lowest dose for the shortest time so that you do not suffer from side effects while taking ketoprofen. 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.
• Lots of pain-killers, anti-inflammatories and cold remedies contain medicines similar to ketoprofen such as aspirin and ibuprofen - check that these are safe for you before taking any.

Can ketoprofen cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store ketoprofen

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

Important information about all medicines