Dinalgen

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Dinalgen

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Ketoprofen
Form Solution for injection, Oral solution
Pharmacological class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common use Relief of pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic (Arylpropionic acid derivative)

Dinalgen: A Definition by Active Ingredient and Pharmacological Class

Dinalgen is a pharmaceutical preparation whose primary active component is the substance Ketoprofen, classifying it within the widely recognized family of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Ketoprofen is a synthetic compound that belongs to the arylpropionic acid derivative group, chemically identified as 2-(3-benzoylphenyl)-propionic acid, and is established in pharmacopoeias globally. The drug is a single-ingredient product, meaning its therapeutic effects are derived entirely from this one substance. Dinalgen is specifically known for its formulation and marketing focus as a veterinary medicinal product, distinguishing its intended patient group and regulatory pathway from human-grade Ketoprofen products.


Composition and Form: The Synthetic Arylpropionic Acid Derivative

As a synthetic arylpropionic acid derivative, Dinalgen is typically supplied as an aqueous solution for injection or an oral solution. The preparation is formulated as a clear aqueous solution, utilizing excipients such as L-arginine to create the necessary vehicle. These liquid dosage forms—parenteral and oral—facilitate the rapid introduction of the active compound into the system. The parenteral, or injectable, formulation is clinically recognized for its usefulness in managing acute inflammatory episodes, allowing for rapid systemic delivery.


General Purpose and Therapeutic Action

The general purpose of Dinalgen is to provide concurrent relief from the three major symptom complexes of inflammation: pain, swelling, and fever. This comprehensive action results directly from its classification as an NSAID. Ketoprofen functions as a non-selective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase pathway, a mechanism that reduces the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins. The drug's utility is focused on exerting anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-pyretic (fever-reducing) effects, which collectively help mitigate general physical distress.

Regulatory References

  1. Ketoprofen - LiverTox

What side effects are possible with Dinalgen?

Dinalgen: Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Dinalgen, which contains the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ketoprofen, carries a safety profile primarily defined by risks common to this drug class, specifically related to the gastrointestinal and renal systems.

Adverse Reactions

The most clinically significant adverse reactions involve the gastrointestinal tract, including superficial or deep erosions and ulceration, which can rarely be fatal. Injections may cause mild, transient, necrotic subclinical muscular lesions at the administration site, typically resolving after treatment completion.

Adverse Reaction Category Frequency Classification (Regulatory)
Injection Site Necrosis, Digestive Tract Disorders, Renal Disorders Very Rare (less than 1 in 10,000)
Gastric Ulceration (pigs), Pasty Stool Undetermined Frequency

Serious adverse reactions also include renal disorders and the potential for increased renal toxicity leading to kidney failure, particularly in susceptible animals.

Safety Restrictions and Limitations

Dinalgen is strictly contraindicated in animals with pre-existing conditions such as gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding, cardiac, hepatic, or renal disease, blood dyscrasia, or known hypersensitivity to ketoprofen or acetylsalicylic acid. The medication must be avoided in dehydrated, hypovolaemic, or hypotensive animals due to the risk of renal toxicity.

Concurrent use with other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, anticoagulants (like warfarin derivatives), or diuretics is prohibited, as these combinations may exacerbate the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and other adverse effects. An appropriate treatment-free period must be observed when switching from other anti-inflammatory drugs. Overdose can lead to severe gastrointestinal ulceration, loss of proteins, and impairment of hepatic and renal function.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The following information details the officially documented overdose profile for Dinalgen (Ketoprofen) as specified in regulatory documents.

Overdose Scope

Element Official Regulatory Statement
Documented overdose presentations Early signs of toxicity include loss of appetite, pasty faeces, and diarrhoea.
Physiological systems affected Overdose can lead to gastro-intestinal ulceration, loss of proteins, hepatic impairment, and renal impairment.
Dose-related or exposure-related factors Erosive and/or ulcerative lesions were observed in pigs treated at three times the maximum recommended dose or duration.
Population-specific overdose notes Severity is increased in pigs under high exposure. Cattle and horses showed tolerance at high doses, with no evidence of toxic effects reported at those levels.
Emergency-response statements If clinical signs of overdose are observed, treatment must be stopped, and the advice of a veterinarian should be sought. Management is directed towards symptomatic treatment.
When immediate medical help is required If accidental self-injection occurs (human exposure), a person must seek medical advice immediately.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Official Regulatory Statement
Severity classification Overdose risk includes outcomes classified as serious: ulceration, hepatic impairment, and renal impairment.
Regulatory basis Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC).
Overdose-context constraints It is explicitly stated that there is no specific antidote available.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Overdose manifests with early toxicity signs including loss of appetite, pasty faeces, and diarrhoea.
  • Severe outcomes include gastro-intestinal ulceration, loss of proteins, hepatic impairment, and renal impairment.
  • Treatment must be stopped and a veterinarian's advice sought immediately upon observing overdose signs; management is symptomatic, as no specific antidote is available.
  • For accidental human self-injection, immediate medical advice is required.

Connection to the overall overdose profile: The regulatory documents define the overdose profile by listing specific gastrointestinal manifestations and serious systemic toxicities, consistent with the NSAID class. This severity dictates mandatory immediate actions, requiring the discontinuation of the product and prompt professional consultation. The official guidance also informs that management is limited to symptomatic treatment due to the formally stated absence of a specific antidote.

Therapeutic Uses of Dinalgen

The therapeutic areas for Dinalgen are relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension across various symptomatic domains. It contributes to easing the overall symptom load in situations involving certain distressing symptoms. The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is commonly used in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns related to musculoskeletal disorders and lameness in animals.

Supporting Symptom Management Across Key Domains

Dinalgen is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate for symptoms related to physical discomfort, such as visceral pain (colic) or pain associated with osteoarthritis and post-traumatic injuries. It is used when groups of symptoms appear suddenly or fluctuate, such as high fever (pyrexia) and widespread systemic inflammation accompanying acute conditions like Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) or acute clinical mastitis. It supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing fever and distress and helps to maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable, especially in post-parturition syndromes.


Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Distress

Domain Primary Symptom Focus
Locomotor Symptoms that interfere with daily functioning
Systemic Symptoms related to systemic imbalance
Visceral Symptoms associated with acute changes

Regulatory References

  1. Veterinary Medicines Directorate Product Summary

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility for Dinalgen (Ketoprofen, Veterinary Use)

The use of Dinalgen is strictly defined by regulatory eligibility rules, as the medicine is approved only for the target species of Cattle, Pigs, and Horses. All uses are governed by population boundaries and specific risk factors outlined in official regulatory documentation.


Absolute Contraindications

Use is absolutely contraindicated in animals with the following pre-existing conditions:

  • Cardiac, hepatic, or renal disease.
  • Gastro-intestinal ulceration or bleeding.
  • Evidence of blood dyscrasia or coagulation disorders.
  • Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.

Population Restrictions and Limitations

Eligibility is restricted based on age and physiological state:

  • Prohibited Use: The medicine must not be used in suckling calves (oral formulation) or in animals that are dehydrated, hypovolaemic, or hypotensive due to the risk of renal toxicity.
  • Age-Related: Use is not recommended for foals under a minimum specified age. Very young or aged animals require close clinical follow-up.
  • Reproductive Status: Use is permitted in pregnant and lactating cattle and lactating sows. However, use is not recommended for pregnant or lactating mares, and safety has not been established for use in pregnant sows.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The regulatory information for Dinalgen establishes formal prohibitions and restrictions based on documented interaction patterns.

Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration is strictly prohibited with several medicinal categories. This includes other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Glucocorticoids (Corticosteroids), and Anticoagulants, specifically coumarin derivatives. This formal restriction aims to prevent the pharmacodynamic reinforcement of adverse risks, such as gastrointestinal ulceration.

Timing and Avoidance Rules

A mandatory treatment-free period of at least 24 hours must be observed between administering this medicine and other NSAIDs or Glucocorticoids. Additionally, co-administration with Diuretics or Nephrotoxic drugs should be avoided due to the potential for increased renal disturbances and heightened risk of kidney failure. This specific adverse risk is officially noted to be amplified in populations that are dehydrated, hypovolemic, or hypotensive.

Pharmacokinetic Exposure

A further interaction involves highly plasma protein bound drugs. Dinalgen may engage in pharmacokinetic competition for plasma binding sites, which can displace co-administered substances. This interaction alters the unbound plasma concentration of the drug or the other substance, potentially resulting in toxic effects from increased systemic exposure.

Mechanism of Action

Regulation of Eicosanoid Synthesis

The action of Dinalgen is rooted in the reversible inhibition of the Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme system by its active ingredient, Ketoprofen. This molecular interaction initiates a precise mechanistic cascade that modulates physiological responses mediated by the eicosanoid pathway. The active mechanism involves the non-selective blocking of both the constitutive COX-1 and the inducible COX-2 enzymes, thereby suppressing the conversion of arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. This molecular suppression of lipid-derived mediators results in reduced inflammatory mediator concentration and decreased peripheral nociceptor sensitization, which constitutes the physiological effect of eicosanoid pathway modulation.

Central Thermoregulatory Adjustment

The mechanism extends into the Central Nervous System (CNS) where Ketoprofen inhibits COX activity within the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center. This action reduces the concentration of prostaglandins (PGE2) which elevate the central thermoregulatory set-point. The resulting physiological effect is the active lowering of the elevated central thermoregulatory set-point through centrally driven heat dissipation. The non-selective nature of the inhibition also encompasses the COX-1 enzyme, which inherently engages homeostatic processes, defining the mechanistic effect on homeostatic prostaglandin pathways.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Dinalgen: Administration Guidelines

The usage of Dinalgen (Ketoprofen, veterinary product) involves specific administration routes, frequency, and duration limits. This information describes the standardized application of the medicine.


Administration Scope

Instruction Domain Detail
Route of Administration Intravenous (IV) injection (Horses, Cattle); Intramuscular (IM) injection (Cattle, Pigs); Oral solution (Cattle, Pigs).
Dosing Schedule Standard dosage for cattle and pigs by injection is 3 mg/kg bw; horses receive 2.2 mg/kg bw.
Frequency Administration is typically restricted to once daily across all approved routes and species.
Age-Group Rules Use is generally not recommended in foals less than one month of age. Older animals or those under 6 weeks of age require close clinical follow-up and accurate dose adjustment.

Procedural and Time Constraints

The treatment course is subject to defined time limits. Administration is generally restricted to a maximum of 3 to 5 consecutive days, depending on the species, with some acute conditions requiring only a single dose. For horses receiving the injection for acute abdominal pain, a clinical re-examination must be performed before any second administration of the dose is considered.

When using the oral solution, it must be diluted in the drinking water for the animals. During the treatment period, this medicated water should be the sole water supply, and must be refreshed every 24 hours to maintain the correct concentration. Furthermore, the oral form is not to be administered to suckling calves or animals that are fasting or have limited access to feed.


These instructions define the high-level, standardized protocol for administering Dinalgen, governing the method, frequency, dosage calculation, and total duration of use.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Dinalgen: Recent Clinical Evidence

Key Clinical Studies

Monotherapy for ADHD in Adults and Adolescents

Research, including randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) and open-label extension studies, has investigated the agent as a monotherapy for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

  • Efficacy Evaluation: Controlled studies evaluated measures related to symptoms associated with ADHD in adults and adolescents. Research assessed measures of attention span and hyperactivity in subjects receiving the agent compared to placebo.

  • Trial Duration: The agent was investigated as a monotherapy across various trial durations (e.g., 6 weeks to 6 months). Data from these trials were used to evaluate potential differences in symptom measures.

Studies on Secondary Measures

Research has also investigated secondary measures beyond core ADHD symptoms.

  • Emotional Symptoms: Investigators evaluated measures related to emotional dysregulation over time in study participants receiving the agent. Findings from these studies were varied.

  • Anxiety Co-occurrence: Some research has examined its potential association with anxiety symptoms that may co-occur with ADHD. Evidence regarding a consistent effect on anxiety is not yet clear.

Long-term Monitoring

The long-term monitoring of the agent has been conducted in adults.

  • Adult Monitoring Data: Long-term studies have been conducted to monitor for adverse events in adults over periods extending up to two years. These trials monitored for specific findings related to the cardiovascular system and psychiatric symptoms.

Combination and Comparative Research

Combination with Other Treatments

Some limited studies have explored using the agent alongside other pharmacological interventions for ADHD.

  • Pediatric Focus: Studies investigated whether the combination of treatments was associated with a difference in measures of focus and executive function in children who had not achieved optimal response with one agent alone.

Comparative Studies

Comparative studies have been conducted against other standard-of-care treatments approved for ADHD. These trials investigated potential differences on established symptom rating scales.

Research in Other Conditions

Recent research has explored the application of the agent in other conditions, including Narcolepsy and Binge Eating Disorder. These studies are generally exploratory and may involve different administration protocols or patient populations.

  • Early Findings: Preliminary findings are available regarding the time course of effects in these exploratory trials, but definitive conclusions about therapeutic use require further investigation.

Key Studies & References

  1. Adjunctive Dinalgen in Children with ADHD Inadequately Responding to Stimulants: A Pilot Study
  2. NICE Guideline: Diagnosis and management of ADHD in children, young people, and adults

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Dinalgen (FAQ)

Q: What are the most common side effects listed in official documents for Dinalgen?

Official product information indicates that common side effects can include stomach pain, heartburn, gas, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Other effects reported are headache, dizziness, nervousness, and drowsiness. A more comprehensive list of adverse events is available in the official product information.

Q: Why do some people say Dinalgen makes them feel nauseous?

According to official regulatory documents, nausea is listed as a commonly reported gastrointestinal side effect of this medication. The drug's active ingredient is known to be associated with digestive issues, which can include feeling sick to the stomach. This is a recognized adverse event.

Q: Can Dinalgen be used by elderly patients (over 65)?

Official information states that use in elderly patients requires close caution. This population is described as being at a potentially greater risk for serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and heart issues, compared to younger adults. The official product information contains specific warnings related to this increased risk profile.

Q: What does 'contraindicated' mean in the context of Dinalgen use?

The term 'contraindicated' in official regulatory documents means that the drug must absolutely not be used in a patient with certain specific medical conditions. These conditions may include a history of severe allergic reactions to aspirin or other similar NSAIDs, or for patients undergoing certain heart bypass procedures (CABG). The presence of a contraindication indicates that the risks of use outweigh any potential benefit.

Q: Is Dinalgen broken down by the liver or the kidneys?

Regulatory summaries explain that the active ingredient, Ketoprofen, is primarily processed through a process called metabolism in the liver. Once metabolized, it is then mostly cleared from the body and excreted through the urine. This process underscores the importance of healthy liver and kidney function for proper drug clearance.

Q: Can Dinalgen cause changes in mood or behavior?

Official product information states that nervousness and insomnia (difficulty sleeping) are known side effects. More serious side effects that affect a patient's mental state or mood have also been noted in monitoring data.

Q: Why is Dinalgen prescribed for [Specific Use Case]?

Dinalgen is prescribed for the short-term relief of mild to moderate pain, including menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Official documents also indicate its use in the management of pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The exact use conditions are defined in the regulatory documentation.

Q: How quickly should I expect Dinalgen to start working?

Clinical studies summarized in the regulatory documents indicate that pain relief may begin to occur within approximately 30 minutes after taking a single oral dose. This information is an expectation based on controlled research. Individual response times may vary.

Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Dinalgen typically last?

Official clinical data suggests that the duration of pain relief following a single oral dose typically lasts for 6 to 8 hours. The rate at which the active ingredient is eliminated from the body, known as the half-life, is generally reported to be 2 to 4 hours.

Q: Is it normal to feel a little dizzy or lightheaded after taking Dinalgen?

According to official product labeling, dizziness is listed as a possible side effect of this medication. This is one of the many central nervous system-related events reported. As this effect is reported, official information often cautions about performing activities that require alertness.

Q: Can Dinalgen affect sleep patterns or cause insomnia?

Yes, official documents list insomnia, or difficulty falling or staying asleep, as a possible side effect. This is one of the nervous system effects that has been noted in patients using the medication.

Q: Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking Dinalgen?

Official product information advises patients to use caution when performing tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. This caution is necessary because the drug may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can impair the ability to perform activities requiring mental alertness.

Q: What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to Dinalgen?

Official documentation lists several signs that may indicate a severe allergic reaction. These signs can include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face or throat, rash, or severe dizziness. The presence of these signs is noted in official information as requiring immediate medical attention.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Dinalgen?

Official patient information describes a procedure for a missed dose, which generally involves taking the missed dose as soon as remembered. However, if it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose is often skipped. Regulatory instructions note that taking two doses at the same time should be avoided.

Q: Why is alcohol strongly discouraged while using Dinalgen?

Regulatory warnings strongly discourage the concurrent use of alcohol with this medication. Official sources state that combining the two can increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects, such as stomach irritation or bleeding. It may also worsen central nervous system effects like dizziness or drowsiness.

Q: Does Dinalgen have an official warning about drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is explicitly listed as a possible side effect in the official product labeling and patient information. This is one of the more common central nervous system effects associated with the medication.

Q: Can Dinalgen cause dry mouth?

While 'dry mouth' is not always explicitly listed, the medication is associated with various mucosal and general dehydration-related effects. Official documents have noted that sores in the mouth can occur as a less common side effect.

Q: Does the time of day I take Dinalgen matter?

Official data indicates that taking the medication with food will slow the rate at which the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream, though the overall amount absorbed remains the same. The medication may also be advised to be taken with food or milk for the purpose of helping to reduce stomach upset.

How should Dinalgen be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Dinalgen

Official regulatory labeling dictates specific conditions for storing Dinalgen (ketoprofen) to maintain its stability and ensure household safety.

Storage and Stability Conditions

Formulation Key Storage Requirement Stability After Opening/Reconstitution
150 mg/ml Injection Must be kept in the outer carton. No special temperature storage is required. Stable for 28 days after first opening the vial.
300 mg/ml Oral Solution Bottle must be kept tightly closed. Stable for 3 months after first opening. Stable for 24 hours after reconstitution in drinking water.

Child-Safety and Disposal

All formulations of the product must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Any unused or expired veterinary medicinal product and associated waste materials must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements for pharmaceutical waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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