Description

Drug Description:
Ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. Available in various forms including oral tablets, topical gels, and injectable formulations, Ketoprofen works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins involved in the inflammatory response. It is primarily used to manage pain from conditions like arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, and other inflammatory disorders.

Indications:
Ketoprofen is indicated for the treatment of acute pain, such as pain following surgery or injury. It is also commonly used for chronic pain conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and musculoskeletal disorders such as strains and back pain. Additionally, it is utilized for primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and for acute gout attacks.

Contraindications:
Ketoprofen should be avoided in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug or other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin. It is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe hepatic or renal impairment, and a history of gastrointestinal perforation. Pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester, should not use Ketoprofen due to potential harm to the fetus. Individuals with asthma, rhinitis, or urticaria triggered by NSAIDs should also avoid this medication.

Mechanism of Action:
Ketoprofen works by inhibiting the COX enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2). These enzymes are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, which mediate pain, inflammation, and fever. By inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2, Ketoprofen reduces the production of these prostaglandins, thereby reducing pain and inflammation at the site of injury or disease, as well as lowering fever.

Side Effects:
Common side effects of Ketoprofen include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Other frequent side effects include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and an increase in blood pressure. Serious adverse effects can include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and perforations, particularly in elderly patients, as well as skin reactions like rashes or itching. Prolonged use of Ketoprofen can also elevate the risk of kidney or liver damage, and it may increase the likelihood of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke.

Drug Interactions:
Ketoprofen may interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. The use of Ketoprofen with other NSAIDs should be avoided as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects. Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) can be affected by Ketoprofen, which may reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of kidney damage. Additionally, Ketoprofen can elevate lithium levels, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity, and may interact with methotrexate, enhancing its toxic effects.