Ketoprofen is used to relieve pain from various conditions. It also reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis. Since the sustained-action form does not work right away, it is best used to treat ongoing conditions (such as arthritis). Other drugs or forms should be used when quick relief is needed (such as of toothache, headache, or menstrual pain). This medication is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. This effect helps to decrease swelling, pain, or fever. If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain. See also Warning section.
See also Warning section. Upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, loss of appetite, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, fast/pounding heartbeat, hearing changes (such as ringing in the ears), mental/mood changes (such as confusion, depression), persistent/severe headache, stomach pain, vision changes (such as blurred vision), symptoms of heart failure (such as swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain). Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: easy bruising/bleeding, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), signs of infection (such as fever, chills, persistent sore throat), symptoms of meningitis (such as unexplained stiff neck, fever). This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Seek immediate medical attention if you have any symptoms of liver damage, including: dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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