Ketoprofen: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Ketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a prescription medicine used for arthritis, back pain, sprains, period pain and muscle pain. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, gel, injections and capsules, made by 9 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Ketoprofen works
Ketoprofen blocks the COX enzymes that make prostaglandins, chemicals released at sites of injury or inflammation. With fewer prostaglandins, pain, swelling and stiffness are reduced, and when taken by mouth it can also bring down a raised temperature.
What is Ketoprofen used for?
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Sprains
- Period pain
- Muscle pain
Ketoprofen is used to relieve pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, as well as back pain, sprains, strains, period pain and pain after minor surgery. Tablets and capsules work throughout the body, while the gel is rubbed onto a painful joint or muscle to give relief at the site with less effect on the stomach.
Side effects of Ketoprofen
Stomach upset is the most common problem with Ketoprofen, particularly with tablets and capsules. Side effects may include:
- Indigestion, heartburn or stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Headache or dizziness
- Skin redness or itching where the gel is applied
Stop taking it and see a doctor urgently if you pass black or bloody stools, vomit blood, have chest pain, or develop swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. A blistering rash on skin treated with the gel, especially after sun exposure, also needs prompt attention.
Precautions and warnings
- Take tablets and capsules with or after food, and use it for the shortest time needed to control symptoms.
- Tell your doctor if you have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney or liver problems.
- Do not combine it with other NSAID painkillers, and check before use if you take blood thinners, steroids, lithium, methotrexate or blood pressure medicines.
- Protect skin treated with the gel from sunlight and sunbeds during use and for two weeks afterwards, as it can cause a severe sun reaction.
- Avoid it in the last three months of pregnancy, and ask your doctor before use earlier in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Ketoprofen
What is the price of Ketoprofen in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Ketoprofen products currently in stock range from Rs 40 to Rs 1,130 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Prefen 100mg Injection at Rs 40. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Ketoprofen are available in Pakistan?
Ketoprofen is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Prefen (FYNK Pharmaceuticals), Ketogesic (Mediceena), Inflo-ket (Valor Pharmaceuticals), Fastum (Pharmatec Pakistan Ltd), Kefentech (Matrix Pharma Ltd), Dowfen (Martin Dow Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Ticon (Amarant Caraway Pharmaceutical) and Ketoflex (Angelini), along with 1 more brands listed below.Do I need a prescription for Ketoprofen?
Yes. Ketoprofen is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Ketoprofen be used during pregnancy?
Avoid it in the last three months of pregnancy, and ask your doctor before use earlier in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Are all Ketoprofen brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Ketoprofen in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Ketoprofen brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 12 products containing Ketoprofen from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
