Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: KETOPROFEN - ORAL ENTERIC OR SUSTAINED ACTION TABLET (kee-toe-PRO-fen)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication relieves pain and reduces inflammation. This medication is commonly used to treat the pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis. It is also used to treat menstrual cramps.

HOW TO USE: This medication should be taken on an empty stomach. Take this medication with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset is the most common side effect. If this persists or becomes severe, notify your doctor. Headache, heartburn, loss of appetite, lightheadedness, dizziness, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, drowsiness or nervousness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop: vision changes, yellowing eyes or skin, ringing in the ears/hearing loss. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking this drug and consult you doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/ abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, rectal bleeding, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin/NSAID allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Infrequently, this medication may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. Use of this drug in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. It is unknown if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.