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Ketoprofen 200 mg prolonged-release capsules – patient leaflet, side effects, dosage

Last updated: · Text from the MHRA, as of · About this document

Medicine status: No longer supplied Details

Medicine strength:
200 mg
Still supplied:
The same active substance, strength and form in the NHS Dictionary of Medicines and Devices (dm+d). Ask your pharmacist or doctor before changing to another make.
Contains active substance:
ATC code:

Patient leaflet - Ketoprofen 200 mg prolonged-release capsules

1. What Ketoprofen is and what it is used for

The name of this medicine is: Ketoprofen Prolonged-release Capsules (referred to as Ketoprofen throughout this leaflet). It contains Ketoprofen. These capsules are controlled release capsules, which means that

the ketoprofen is released slowly into the blood. This medicine belongs to the group of medicines known as non−steroidal anti−inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The capsules are effective against pain, inflammation and fever.

Ketoprofen can be used in the management of:

  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • osteoarthritis
  • ankylosing spondylitis, (chronic inflammatory disease of the spine and nearby joints)
  • inflammation of the moving parts of the body (joint space, capsule, lining of the joint, muscle insertion), cervical spondylitis
  • low back pain (strain, lumbago, sciatica, inflammation of the fibrous tissue)
  • painful musculoskeletal conditions
  • severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhoea)

2. What you need to know before you take Ketoprofen

Do not take Ketoprofen:

  • If you are allergic to ketoprofen or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (see Section 6 “Contents of the pack and other information”)
  • If you are allergic to aspirin, ibuprofen or any other non−steroidal anti−inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling of the face or throat, runny nose, redness of the skin or an itchy skin rash
  • If you have or have ever had an ulcer, perforation or bleed in your stomach or intestine (gut)
  • If you have a history of stomach bleeding or perforation related to previous NSAID treatment
  • If you have severe liver, kidney or heart problems
  • If you are in the last 3 months of pregnancy (see section 2 ’Pregnancy & breast−feeding’,)
  • If you bruise more easily than usual and have bleeding that lasts a long time

Warnings and precautions

Talk to your doctor before taking Ketoprofen:

  • If you have kidney or liver problems
  • If you have asthma combined with a chronic runny nose, blocked nose or swellings in the nose, as you have a higher risk of allergy to aspirin or NSAIDs
  • If you have SLE (systemic lupus erythematosis) or any other similar condition with symptoms such as joint pain, skin rash and fever. There may be an increased risk of aseptic meningitis
  • If you have a history of ulcers or you are elderly as there is an increased risk of stomach bleeding and perforation (see Section 2 below ‘Please note’)
  • If you have a history of suffering from a disease of the bowel or intestine, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
  • If you are planning to become pregnant or you have problems becoming pregnant. Ketoprofen may make it more difficult to become pregnant (see Section 2 “Pregnancy & breast−feeding’)
  • If you are taking other medicines, such as hydrocortisone (oral corticosteroids), warfarin (anticoagulants), citalopram (SSRIs), furosemide (diuretics /water tablets), aspirin or other NSAIDs including COX-2 selective NSAIDs e.g. celecoxib (see ‘Section 2 “Other medicines and Ketoprofen”)
  • If you have heart problems (see Section 2 below ‘Please note’)
  • If you have an infection – please see heading “Infections” below.

Infections

Ketoprofen may hide signs of infections such as fever and pain. It is therefore possible that Ketoprofen may delay appropriate treatment of infection, which may lead to an increased risk of complications. This has been observed in pneumonia caused by bacteria and bacterial skin infections related to chickenpox. If you take this medicine while you have an infection and your symptoms of the infection persist or worsen, consult a doctor without delay.

Please note:

Possible heart problems

Medicines such as Ketoprofen may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack ("myocardial infarction") or stroke. Any risk is more likely with high doses and prolonged treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

If you have heart problems, previous stroke or think that you might be at risk of these conditions (for example if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol or are a smoker) you

should discuss your treatment with your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible stomach problems

Some evidence suggests that ketoprofen, the active ingredient of Ketoprofen, may be associated with a high risk of serious stomach problems, such as bleeding, ulcers or perforation, relative to other NSAIDs. This is more likely if you take a high dose of Ketoprofen.

Possible side effects can be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

Other medicines and Ketoprofen:

Tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription. This includes herbal medicines.

Medicines which may interact with or be affected by Ketoprofen:

  • salicylates, such as aspirin (high dosage) or other NSAIDs e.g. ibuprofen or celecoxib. You should avoid using these medicines with Ketoprofen (Ketoprofen may increase the risk of ulcers or haemorrhages)
  • selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used to treat depression e.g. citalopram, paroxetine, fluoxetine or sertraline (Ketoprofen may increase the risk of stomach bleeding)
  • corticosteroids, used to treat inflammation and allergic conditions e.g. hydrocortisone, betamethasone or prednisolone (Ketoprofen may increase the risk of stomach bleeding or ulcers)
  • anticoagulants used to stop blood clotting e.g. warfarin, heparin, ticlopidine or clopidogrel (Ketoprofen may increase the effects of these medicines)
  • probenecid, a medicine used to treat gout
  • methotrexate, used to treat some inflammatory diseases and cancers
  • sulphonamides, used to treat bacterial infections e.g. co−trimoxazole
  • hydantoins, used to treat seizures e.g. phenytoin
  • lithium, used to treat depression
  • ciclosporin, used to treat some inflammatory diseases and after an organ transplantation to help prevent rejection (especially if elderly)
  • pentoxifylline, used to help poor blood circulation in limbs
  • mifepristone, used to terminate a pregnancy
  • cardiac glycosides, used to treat heart failure e.g. digoxin
  • quinolone antibiotics, used to treat bacterial infections e.g. ciprofloxacin
  • medicines used to treat high blood pressure e.g. atenolol (beta−blockers) and, if you have kidney problems, medicines e.g. captopril (ACE inhibitors) and candesartan (angiotensin II antagonists)
  • water tablets (diuretics) e.g. amiloride
  • medicines used to treat diabetes e.g. gliclazide
  • tacrolimus, used to dampen down the body’s immune response and may be used for severe skin complaints and following organ transplantation
  • zidovudine, used to treat viral infections
  • aminoglycosides, used to treat bacterial infections e.g. amikacin
  • thrombolytics used to dissolve blood clots such as streptokinase, alteplase or reteplase Pregnancy and breast−feeding:

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine.

Pregnancy

You should not take this medicine if you are trying to become pregnant, unless told to do so by your doctor. This medicine may make it more difficult to become pregnant.

Ketoprofen should not be taken during the first and second trimester (first 6 months) of pregnancy or whilst trying to conceive, unless your doctor tells you to. If Ketoprofen is used, the dose should be low and the length of treatment as short as possible.

Ketoprofen must not be used during the last three months of pregnancy. must not be used during the last three months of pregnancy.

Breast−feeding

If you are breast−feeding, you should not take this medicine, unless told to do so by your doctor. Driving and using machines:

Ketoprofen may affect your ability to drive and operate machinery by causing headaches, fatigue, nausea, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness. You may have a fit (convulsion) while taking this medicine. If you do experience any effects, do not drive or operate machinery. The capsules contain micrograins of sugar and sulfur dioxide. The 200mg capsules also contain soya lecithin.

These capsules contain micrograins of sugar. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicine.

These capsules contain sulfur dioxide, which on rare occasions, may cause severe allergic reactions and difficulty in breathing or wheezing. If you are allergic to peanut or soya do not use this medicinal product (200mg capsules only).

Front Side

150 mm

Product:Ketoprofen 100mg and 200mg CR Capsules
Process Black
P2997T
150 x 400 mm
8pt
13/08/24
6
Amendment Date11/04/25

3. How to take Ketoprofen

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

  • These capsules are to be taken orally
  • You should take the capsules twice daily with food

  • Swallow the capsule(s) whole with a glass of water
  • The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration necessary to relieve symptoms. If you have an infection, consult a doctor without delay if symptoms (such as fever and pain) persist or worsen (see section 2).

The recommended dose is:

The doses stated below are guidelines only. Your doctor will decide on the correct dosage for your condition and symptoms.

Adults:

The usual dose is 100 - 200mg daily, depending on the patient’s weight and the severity of the symptoms.

The maximum daily dose is 200mg and this must not be exceeded.

Older people:

Your doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose for you to take.

Your doctor may need to monitor you regularly for any bleeding from your stomach during the first four weeks after you start your treatment and may need to carry out blood tests from time to time. Use in children:

Ketoprofen is not recommended for children. If you take more Ketoprofen than you should

If you accidentally take too many capsules, contact your doctor, pharmacist or nearest emergency department immediately for advice. Remember to take the carton and any remaining capsules with you.

The symptoms of an overdose include: lack of energy, feeling or being sick, stomach pain, bleeding in the stomach, diarrhoea (rare), feeling disorientated or excited, coma, drowsiness, dizziness, ringing in your ears, fainting and, occasionally, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing or fits.

If you forget to take Ketoprofen

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you stop taking Ketoprofen

Do not stop or change your treatment before talking to your doctor.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

4. Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Stop taking Ketoprofen and seek medical advice immediately if you develop the following symptoms

  • Pass blood in your stools or black, tarry stools, vomit any blood or dark particles that look like coffee grounds (possible symptoms of stomach bleeding).
  • Indigestion or heartburn, severe abdominal or stomach pain or other abnormal stomach symptoms (possible symptoms of a peptic ulcer or stomach perforation)
  • Allergic reactions: swelling of the hands, face, feet, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing, itching, dizziness (anaphylactic reaction)
  • Blistering of the skin (Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis), mouth, eyes or genitals (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)
  • Swelling of the face or throat (angioedema)
  • Eye problems, such as blurred vision
  • Lack of energy, shortness of breath or weakness (symptoms of kidney failure) or blood in your urine, a change in the amount of urine you produce, swelling, especially of your legs, ankles or feet (symptoms of serious kidney problems) Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)
  • indigestion
  • feeling or being sick
  • stomach pain

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • tiredness or drowsiness
  • constipation
  • diarrhoea
  • wind (flatulence)
  • pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen (gastritis)
  • itching with or without a rash (pruritus)
  • swelling of parts of the body (oedema) Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)
  • pale skin, weakness or breathlessness due to a loss of blood (haemorrhagic anaemia)
  • tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (paraesthesia)
  • ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or tightness of the chest (asthma)
  • inflammation of the mucous lining of the mouth (stomatitis)
  • tiredness, pains in abdomen, muscle and joint aches, yellowing of skin and eyes (inflammation of liver [hepatitis], jaundice)
  • increase in liver enzymes or bilirubin (detected through blood tests)
  • increased weight

    • tiredness, prone to infections or easily bruised due to bone marrow failure
    • severe reduction in blood cells which can cause weakness, bruising or make infections more likely (aplastic anaemia)
    • reduction in red blood cells which can make the skin pale yellow and cause weakness or breathlessness (haemolytic anaemia)
    • mood change
    • fits
    • abnormal sense of taste (dysgeusia)
    • visual disturbances
    • painful inflammation of the optic nerve in your eye (optic neuritis)
    • shortness of breath or ankle swelling (heart failure)
    • high blood pressure
    • reddening of the face (vasodilatation)
    • worsening of asthma or bronchospasm i.e. coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or tightness of the chest
    • runny nose (rhinitis)
    • worsening of abdominal pain or diarrhoea (symptoms of colitis) or diarrhoea and weight loss (symptoms of Crohn’s disease)
    • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight (photosensitivity)
    • loss of hair (alopecia)
    • skin rash resulting from bleeding into the skin (purpura)
    • red patches on the skin (erythema multiforme) or scaling of the skin (exfoliative dermatitis)
    • itchy rash
    • kidney problems or worsening of existing kidney problems
    • swollen ankles or high blood pressure due to inflammation of the kidney
    • abnormal kidney function tests
    • feeling generally unwell

Medicines such as ketoprofen may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack ("myocardial infarction") or stroke. Any risk is more likely with high doses and prolonged treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme, website www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5. How to Store Ketoprofen

  • Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not store above 25°C.
  • Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton/blister after "EXP". The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
  • Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer require. These measures will help to protect the environment.

6. Contents of the pack and other information

What Ketoprofen contains:

Each Ketoprofen 100mg Prolonged-release Capsules contains 100mg of ketoprofen. Each Ketoprofen 200mg Prolonged-release Capsules contains 200mg of ketoprofen. The other ingredients are: povidone, ethylcellulose, talc and micrograins of sugar and starch.

The 100mg capsule shell contains gelatin, sulfur dioxide, titanium dioxide, denatured ethanol and black ink code 1007.

The 200mg capsule shell contains gelatin, sulfur dioxide, titanium dioxide, the colourings E104 (quinoline yellow), E127 (erythrosine BS), E132 (indigo carmine), E172 (yellow iron oxide) and E171 (titanium dioxide) and opacode white (shellac, soya lecithin, IMS and ethoxy ethanol). What Ketoprofen looks like and contents of the pack:

Ketoprofen 100mg Prolonged-release Capsules: white cap, colourless body, size 3 capsules, containing homogeneous creamy white microgranules, printed KETOPROFEN 100mg. Ketoprofen 200mg Prolonged-release Capsules: red cap, transparent green body, size 1 capsules, containing homogeneous creamy white microgranules, printed KETOPROFEN 200mg. Ketoprofen is available in:

Ketoprofen 100mg Prolonged-release Capsules are available in packs of 56 capsules.

Ketoprofen 200mg Prolonged-release Capsules are available in packs of 28 capsules.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer

Marketing Authorisation Holder

Crescent Pharma Ltd., Key House,

Sarum Hill, Basingstoke, RG21 8SR, UK. Manufacturer

Tillomed Laboratories Ltd.

3 Howard Road, Eaton Socon,

ST. Neots, PE19 8ET, United Kingdom.. Product Licence Numbers:

Ketoprofen 100mg Prolonged-release Capsules: PL 20416/0772

Ketoprofen 200mg Prolonged-release Capsules: PL 20416/0773

P2997T

This leaflet was last revised in 04/2025.

Not known: frequency cannot be estimated from the available data

  • abnormally low level or decrease of white blood cells in the blood &/or make infections more likely (neutropenia/agranulocytosis)
  • reduction in blood platelets, which increases the risk of bleeding or bruising (thrombocytopenia)

    Back Side

    150 mm

Product:Ketoprofen 100mg and 200mg CR Capsules
Process Black
P2997T
150 x 400 mm
8pt
13/08/24
6
Amendment Date11/04/25

About this document

Source: MHRA - Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (products.mhra.gov.uk) · Marketing authorisation: PL 20416/0773

Last revision stated in the text: April 2025 · MHRA data as of 13 October 2026

Found a mistake? Tell us on the contact page.

The information on this site does not replace the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.

Facts about Ketoprofen 200 mg prolonged-release capsules

Active substance Ketoprofen
Strength 200 mg
Pharmaceutical form Modified-release capsule
How is it taken Oral
Is it available? No, all its packs are listed as discontinued (NHS Dictionary of Medicines and Devices – not a record of current supplies)
Drug group (ATC)
  1. M Musculo-skeletal system drugs
    1. M01 Antiinflammatory and antirheumatic products
      1. M01A Antiinflammatory and antirheumatic products, non-steroids
        1. M01AE Propionic acid derivatives, antiinflammatory and antirheumatic products
          1. M01AE03 ketoprofen
Marketing authorisation PL 20416/0773
Codes BNF 10010100

Sources: the MHRA product information (products.mhra.gov.uk) and the NHS Dictionary of Medicines and Devices (dm+d), release 10.1.0 of 12 October 2026, NHS Business Services Authority. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.