Drug Notes

Ketoprofen (By mouth)

Ketoprofen (kee-toe-PROE-fen)

Treats pain and arthritis. This medicine is an NSAID.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Coated Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
• Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
• Swallow the extended-release capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use any other NSAID medicine unless your doctor says it is okay. Some other NSAIDs are aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
• Some medicines can affect how ketoprofen works. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
  • A blood thinner such as warfarin
  • A diuretic (water pill) such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), or torsemide
  • Lithium
  • Methotrexate
  • Probenecid
  • Steroid medicine

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a history of ulcers or other stomach problems. Tell your doctor if you have bleeding problems, liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure (CHF), or other heart or circulation problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Bleeding in your stomach or intestines
  • Higher risk of heart attack or stroke
  • Serious skin reactions
  • Liver problems
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Change in how much or how often you urinate
• Chest pain that may spread, trouble breathing, nausea, unusual sweating, fainting
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Numbness or weakness on one side of your body, sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking
• Pain in your lower leg (calf)
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, gas, or upset stomach
• Drowsiness, dizziness, or nervousness
• Headache
• Vision changes

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017