ketoprofen at a glance
Medicine class
Topical NSAID with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects
Main role
Symptomatic relief of musculoskeletal and soft-tissue pain
Important precaution
Protect treated skin from sunlight and artificial UV during use and for two weeks afterwards
What is ketoprofen used for?
The gel is licensed for symptomatic relief of pain associated with:
Soft-tissue and sports injuries
Sprains and strains
Muscle–tendon inflammation and swelling
Backache
Rheumatic pain
How does ketoprofen work?
Ketoprofen inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation. Skin application produces much lower systemic exposure than oral ketoprofen.
ketoprofen preparations and strengths
Gel
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 2.5%, 2.5% w/w
How to take ketoprofen
For external use only.
Gently massage the gel into the painful or inflamed area.
Wash hands before and immediately after application unless treating the hands.
Do not apply to broken, infected or diseased skin, eyes, mucous membranes, or anal or genital areas.
Do not cover with an airtight dressing.
Cover treated areas with clothing and avoid sunlight, sunbeds and other UV exposure during use and for two weeks afterwards.
Keep away from naked flames.
ketoprofen side effects
Common or expected effects
- Uncommon: local redness, itching, eczema, burning, rash or an application-site burn
Get urgent medical advice
- Rare: photosensitivity, blistering, marked swelling, hives or severe contact dermatitis
- Frequency not known: anaphylaxis, angioedema or Stevens–Johnson syndrome
- Very rare: worsening kidney impairment or acute kidney failure
ketoprofen in pregnancy
Use in the first or second trimester only if a prescriber considers it clearly necessary. It is contraindicated during the third trimester. NSAIDs should not be used after 20 weeks unless prescribed because fetal risks increase later in pregnancy.
ketoprofen while breastfeeding
The product information advises that ketoprofen gel should not be used while breastfeeding. Discuss alternatives with a prescriber or pharmacist.
ketoprofen interactions
Systemic interactions are less likely because blood concentrations are low, but relevant risks remain.
Aspirin or other NSAIDs
Concurrent use may increase NSAID adverse effects; check with a prescriber or pharmacist before combining them.
High-dose methotrexate
Serious interactions occur between systemic NSAIDs and high-dose methotrexate, so the treatment team should know about ketoprofen use.
Octocrylene-containing cosmetics or hygiene products
Co-application may provoke a skin reaction; stop ketoprofen immediately if one develops.
Common questions about ketoprofen
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can ketoprofen gel be used on broken skin?
No. Do not apply it to open wounds, infected lesions, eczema, acne or other diseased skin.
Why must sunlight be avoided?
Sunlight and artificial UV can trigger potentially serious skin reactions on treated areas.
What should I do if a rash develops?
Stop using the gel immediately and seek medical or pharmacy advice. Get urgent assessment for blistering, peeling, mouth sores or a severe widespread reaction.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.