Ketoprofen (By Mouth)

Ketoprofen (kee-toe-PROE-fen)

Treats pain caused by arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other medical problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Orudis, Oruvail, Orudis KT
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ketoprofen, aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicines such as Motrin®, Voltaren®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®, Indocin®, or Clinoril®, The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, rash, or swelling in the face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Coated Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
• You may take the medicine with food, milk, or an antacid (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) so it does not upset your stomach.
• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use this medicine with aspirin, products that contain aspirin, naproxen (Aleve®), or ibuprofen (Motrin® or Advil®).
• Ketoprofen can cause stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol can make this worse. If you have 3 or more drinks of alcohol every day, ask your doctor if you should use ketoprofen. One drink of alcohol is the same as 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of hard liquor (gin, whiskey, and others).
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using Coumadin® or probenecid.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before using ketoprofen if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, or ulcers or other stomach problems.
• Talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while using this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe rash, itching, or hives
• Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
• Chest tightness, wheezing, or trouble breathing
• Unexplained fever or sore throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Decreased amount of urine
• Severe stomach pain or vomiting blood
• Bloody or black tarry stools

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Stomach cramps or discomfort, nausea
• Headache or nervousness
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Ringing in ears
• Sensitivity of skin to sunlight

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.