Ibuprofene vs Ketoprofene: Comparing their Uses and Benefits
Ibuprofene and ketoprofene are both common over-the-counter drugs used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. While ibuprofene is one of the most widely known and used medications, ketoprofene is gaining increased popularity as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Both ibuprofene and ketoprofene work by blocking the production of prostaglandin, which is a hormone-like substance that helps to regulate inflammation. By blocking the production of prostaglandin, the drugs are able to reduce pain and inflammation.
In terms of effectiveness, both ibuprofene and ketoprofene are equally effective at treating pain and inflammation. However, ketoprofene tends to be slightly more effective for chronic conditions as it has a longer duration of action.
When it comes to side effects, both ibuprofene and ketoprofene can cause stomach irritation, ulcers, and bleeding in the digestive tract. They also increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in people who are already at risk for these conditions. That being said, ketoprofene can be somewhat less risky than ibuprofene in people who are already at risk of heart attack and stroke.
When it comes to cost, ibuprofene is usually the cheaper of the two drugs. However, ketoprofene can be more expensive because its duration of action is longer.
Overall, both ibuprofene and ketoprofene are effective for treating pain and inflammation. However, people who are at risk for heart attack and stroke may want to consider using ketoprofene instead of ibuprofene, as it may be slightly less risky. Additionally, ketoprofene is usually more expensive than ibuprofene, so those looking to save money may want to opt for the latter.