Ketoprofen and ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) commonly used to alleviate pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation. Though both are NSAIDs, they have distinct characteristics. Understanding these differences helps determine suitability for specific needs.
Comparing Effectiveness for Pain and Inflammation
Ketoprofen and ibuprofen work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in inflammation. Ketoprofen is a stronger anti-inflammatory agent.
A systematic review from 2013 indicated that orally administered ketoprofen demonstrated superior efficacy in relieving moderate to severe pain, improving functional status and general condition when compared to ibuprofen or diclofenac. [2_search] For chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, ketoprofen has shown a statistically significant advantage over ibuprofen in managing pain. A meta-analysis found ketoprofen more effective at therapeutic doses (50-200 mg/day) compared to ibuprofen (600-1800 mg/day) for rheumatoid arthritis. [4_search, 5_search]
Ibuprofen, an effective NSAID, is widely recognized for its general pain relief. It is frequently used for common ailments like headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and minor muscle aches. [5_search] It provides reliable short-term relief and can also help reduce inflammation associated with minor injuries.
Side Effects and Health Risks
Both ketoprofen and ibuprofen, as NSAIDs, carry a risk of side effects, primarily gastrointestinal. Common adverse effects include indigestion, stomach pain, heartburn, and nausea. [1_search, 4_search, 5_search] Prolonged use of either medication can increase the likelihood of more severe issues, such as stomach ulcers, which may lead to internal bleeding or perforation. [4_search, 5_search]
NSAIDs function by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, disrupting the stomach lining’s protective mechanisms and impacting kidney function. [5_search] While both drugs share these general risks, a meta-analysis comparing ketoprofen to ibuprofen and diclofenac found no statistically significant difference in overall adverse event risk. [3_search]
All prescription NSAIDs, including ketoprofen, carry a black box warning regarding potential cardiovascular thrombotic events and gastrointestinal risks. [5_search] Ketoprofen has been associated with an increased rate of cerebrovascular events, including hemorrhagic stroke. [2_search] Long-term NSAID use can elevate the risk of heart attack or stroke, even without prior warning symptoms. [5_search] To minimize these risks, healthcare professionals advise taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration for both medications. [4_search]
Dosage and How to Get Them
The availability and typical dosages of ketoprofen and ibuprofen differ significantly. Ibuprofen is widely accessible as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication in lower strengths, a common choice for minor aches and pains. [1_search, 5_search] For OTC ibuprofen, typical adult dosing is one to two 200 mg tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with a maximum daily limit of 1200 mg. [5_search] Higher doses of ibuprofen are available by prescription.
In contrast, ketoprofen is a prescription-only medication in the United States. [1_search, 3_search, 4_search] While a lower-strength 12.5 mg tablet was previously available OTC, it is now obtained through a prescription. [3_search]
For prescription ketoprofen, dosage varies by condition. For mild to moderate pain or menstrual cramps, immediate-release capsules are typically prescribed at 25 mg to 50 mg every 6 to 8 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 300 mg. [1_search, 4_search] For conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, immediate-release capsules might be prescribed at 75 mg three times daily or 50 mg four times daily, not exceeding 300 mg per day. [1_search, 4_search] Extended-release ketoprofen capsules are also available, usually taken once daily at a 200 mg dose for arthritis, but are not recommended for acute pain. [1_search, 2_search, 4_search]