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Ketoprofen vs. Ibuprofen

Ketoprofen is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for adults. It comes as immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) capsules. This medication treats pain and inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). The IR capsules can also help treat general mild-to-moderate pain and pain from menstrual cramps. While the IR capsules are taken by mouth up to four times per day, the ER capsule is taken once every day. The dosage depends on the pain condition you have. The most common ketoprofen side effects are indigestion, stomach pain, and nausea.

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Mild-to-moderate pain - immediate-release capsules only
• Menstrual cramps - immediate-release capsules only

• Indigestion (11%)
• Nausea (up to 9%)
• Stomach pain (up to 9%)
• Diarrhea (up to 9%)
• Constipation (up to 9%)
• Passing gas (up to 9%)
• Headache (up to 9%)

• Risk for stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
• Risk for heart attack and stroke
• High blood pressure, swelling, and risk for heart failure
• Kidney damage
• Liver problems
• Risk for general bleeding
• Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
• Not safe to take while pregnant

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that's used to temporarily relieve fever, pains, and aches in adults and children. In general, ibuprofen is taken by mouth every 4 to 8 hours, though the dosage depends on your age, weight, and other medical problems. Ibuprofen side effects include nausea, heartburn, and stomach pain, but taking it with food might help prevent these side effects. Ibuprofen is available over the counter and by prescription, depending on the strength you need.

Over-the-counter ibuprofen:

• Short-term relief of minor aches and pains due to headache, muscle aches, minor arthritis pain, toothache, backache, the common cold, or menstrual cramps
• Fever

Prescription ibuprofen:

• Mild-to-moderate pain
• Pain from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA)
• Pain from menstrual cramps

The following side effects were reported in up to 9% of people in clinical studies.

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Dizziness
• Rash

• Stomach bleeding and ulcers
• Heart attack and stroke
• High blood pressure and heart failure
• Kidney damage
• Liver problems
• Severe allergic reactions
• Harm to unborn babies
• Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - chewable tablets only