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Non-selective NSAID

Ketoprofen

Brand names: Oruvail, Powergel

Ketoprofen is a propionic acid NSAID used for pain and inflammation in musculoskeletal, rheumatic and other painful conditions.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits cyclo-oxygenase enzymes to reduce prostaglandin production, giving analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects.

Prescribing in practice

  • As an NSAID it carries gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal risks, so use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period, especially in the elderly.
  • Topical ketoprofen can cause photosensitivity reactions, so treated skin should be protected from sunlight during and after use as directed in the SPC.
  • Consider gastroprotection in high-risk patients and review concurrent anticoagulant, antiplatelet and nephrotoxic therapy.

Monitoring

Monitor renal function and blood pressure in at-risk patients and watch for gastrointestinal symptoms during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Take oral preparations with or after food and report black stools or vomiting blood.
  • If using the gel, keep treated skin covered and out of sunlight, and wash your hands after application.
  • Avoid other anti-inflammatory painkillers unless advised.

Evidence & guidelines

NSAID class risks are well established, and MHRA has advised on the risk of photosensitivity with topical ketoprofen.

Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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