Ketoprofen

Ketoprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used for general pain relief and to treat symptoms of arthritis. The medication is effective in reducing pain, inflammation, and joint swelling associated with different forms of arthritis and painful conditions. Ketoprofen comes in an oral capsule form and is available in six different strengths.

 

What Is Ketoprofen?

Ketoprofen is a medicine that is used to treat pain, inflammation, swelling, and/or stiffness. It is part of a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs for short.
 

Who Makes Ketoprofen?

Ketoprofen is manufactured by several companies, including Teva Pharmaceuticals and Mylan Labs.
 

What Is Ketoprofen Used For?

Some ketoprofen uses include:
 
  • Pain relief, such as for pain following a medical procedure, from straining a muscle, or caused by inflammation in a tendon (tendonitis) or bursa (bursitis). It can also be used to treat general pain, such as lower back pain, neck pain, or knee pain.
     
  • Treatment of arthritis symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and swelling. Ketoprofen can be used to treat several different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Ketoprofen does not cure these types of arthritis.
     
  • Treatment of painful menstrual periods.
     
(Click Ketoprofen Uses for more information on these uses, along with possible off-label uses for ketoprofen.)
 

How Does Ketoprofen Work?

Ketoprofen and other NSAIDs are thought to work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;