Get Prescription Ketoprofen Online

Ketoprofen is not a controlled substance. It's a standard NSAID with no potential for addiction or abuse.

In the United States, it does require a prescription, but this is different from being a controlled substance. Prescription-only status means a doctor needs to evaluate whether it's appropriate for you, mainly because ketoprofen is stronger than over-the-counter NSAIDs and carries more significant side effect risks.

Ketoprofen is technically still approved in the U.S., but it's become much harder to find.

Several brand-name versions have been discontinued. Orudis and Oruvail, which were the most well-known brand names, are no longer available in the American market. These were discontinued years ago, though the reasons weren't entirely clear – likely a combination of market factors and the availability of other NSAIDs.

Generic ketoprofen is still FDA-approved and can theoretically be prescribed, but because of this limited availability, doctors in the U.S. typically prescribe other NSAIDs instead – things like ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, or meloxicam. These are more readily available and work similarly.

Ketoprofen typically starts working within 30 minutes to two hours for pain relief, with peak effects occurring around one to two hours after taking it.

For inflammation and swelling, ketoprofen may take longer to take effect. You may need to take it regularly for a few days to see the full anti-inflammatory benefits. This is common with NSAIDs since reducing inflammation is a gradual process.

The speed also depends on the formulation. Immediate-release capsules work faster, while extended-release versions are designed to work more slowly over a longer period (usually taken once daily). Topical gels applied to the skin may provide some local relief within an hour or so, but they work differently than oral forms.

Ketoprofen is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester where it's specifically contraindicated. If you need pain relief during pregnancy, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered the safest first-line option. For more significant pain or inflammation, your provider can discuss alternatives that are safer during pregnancy.

It's best to avoid alcohol while taking ketoprofen. Both ketoprofen and alcohol can irritate your stomach lining. When combined, they significantly increase your risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding, and gastrointestinal problems. NSAIDs already carry this risk on their own, and alcohol makes it much worse.

Additionally, both ketoprofen and alcohol are processed by your liver. Taking them together puts extra strain on this organ, particularly if you drink regularly or have any existing liver issues.

The most common side effects of ketoprofen include:

• Upset stomach or indigestion

• Nausea

• Heartburn or acid reflux

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Fluid retention or mild swelling

• Rash or itching

Gastrointestinal side effects are the most frequent complaints and occur because NSAIDs irritate the stomach lining.

Taking ketoprofen with food or milk can help reduce stomach irritation. Staying well-hydrated and avoiding alcohol also helps.

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