Description
What is ketoprofen?
Ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Ketoprofen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ketoprofen is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by arthritis. The ketoprofen regular capsule is also used to treat mild to moderate pain, or menstrual pain. Only ketoprofen extended-release capsules are used for treating arthritis. This form of ketoprofen will not work fast enough to treat acute pain.
Important Information
Ketoprofen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term or take high doses, or if you have heart disease. Do not use ketoprofen just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Ketoprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using ketoprofen, especially in older adults.
Before taking this medicine
Ketoprofen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term or take high doses, or if you have heart disease. Even people without heart disease or risk factors could have a stroke or heart attack while taking this medicine. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Ketoprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using ketoprofen, especially in older adults. You should not use ketoprofen if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have:
- heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if you smoke;
- a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
- a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding;
- asthma;
- liver or kidney disease; or
- fluid retention.
Taking ketoprofen during the last 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether ketoprofen passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Ketoprofen is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
