Birofenid

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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 Birofenid

Property Description
Active ingredient Ketoprofen (INN)
Form Oral Dosage Forms (e.g., tablet, capsule)
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common use General Pain, Inflammation, and Fever Reduction
Origin Synthetic Organic Compound

Birofenid is a specific medicinal preparation whose identity is rooted in its active component, Ketoprofen, a well-established synthetic organic compound derived from the propionic acid family. As a single-active-ingredient drug entity, Birofenid belongs to the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) pharmacological class. The preparation is typically presented in solid oral dosage forms, such as a tablet or capsule, for administration via the oral route.

Classification, Composition, and General Purpose

The classification of Birofenid as an NSAID is based on the action of Ketoprofen, which functions by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins—key chemical messengers that propagate pain, inflammation, and fever. Ketoprofen is associated with providing temporary relief from discomfort associated with musculoskeletal issues. The substance is also characterized by its therapeutic efficacy in reducing inflammation and fever.

The drug's chemical designation as a propionic acid derivative places it within a prominent subclass of NSAIDs, ensuring that Birofenid delivers a combined, tri-functional utility. The overall general therapeutic purpose of Birofenid is to provide symptomatic relief by simultaneously easing discomfort (analgesic effect), reducing swelling (anti-inflammatory effect), and assisting in the management of elevated body temperature (antipyretic effect), positioning it as a comprehensive tool for general symptomatic management.

Regulatory References

  1. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) pharmacological class
  2. NSAID
  3. Pharmacological studies
  4. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
  5. clinically recognized
  6. NSAIDs
  7. general therapeutic purpose

What side effects are possible with Birofenid?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information: Birofenid

Birofenid, which contains the active ingredient Ketoprofen, is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and is associated with the side effect profile common to this class of medication.


Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Risks

Like all NSAIDs, Birofenid carries a serious warning regarding potential cardiovascular and gastrointestinal adverse events. It may increase the risk of serious (and potentially fatal) cardiovascular thrombotic events, such as heart attack and stroke, especially with higher doses or long-term use. This drug is generally contraindicated before or after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

It may also cause serious gastrointestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can occur without warning symptoms and may be fatal. The risk is often higher in older adults.


Common and Serious Adverse Reactions

Common side effects often involve the gastrointestinal tract and may include upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and headache.

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention, though rare, include signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/throat), severe skin reactions, symptoms of stomach bleeding (e.g., black or tarry stools, vomiting that looks like coffee grounds), signs of liver damage (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), and signs of heart problems (e.g., shortness of breath, sudden weakness).


Other Safety Considerations

Patients with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney/liver disease should use Birofenid with caution and consult their healthcare provider, as NSAIDs can worsen these conditions. Birofenid is not generally recommended for use during the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory documentation for Birofenid (Ketoprofen) outlines the immediate risks and mandatory actions required in case of overdose. Immediate medical help must be sought or a Poison Control Center must be contacted right away if an overdose is suspected, as there is no specific antidote known.

Official Regulatory Statement on Overdose Documented Manifestations and Risks
Common Clinical Presentation Overdose may initially present with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as nausea, vomiting (potentially bloody), epigastric pain, or diarrhea. Central nervous system (CNS) effects including drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and headache are also officially documented.
Severe/Life-Threatening Risks Documented serious outcomes include acute renal failure, liver failure, severe GI hemorrhage, and GI perforation. In cases of severe exposure, the official labeling notes the risk of life-threatening events such as seizures and coma.

Mandated Emergency Management

Management of a suspected overdose is restricted to symptomatic and supportive care. Regulatory sources require continuous monitoring of vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, breathing rate). Specific supportive procedures, such as the administration of oral activated charcoal or gastric lavage, may be utilized to reduce absorption, particularly when a large overdose (e.g., 5 to 10 times the usual dose) is known to have occurred within four hours of ingestion. Population-specific statements note that elderly patients are at a greater risk for experiencing serious GI events following an overdose exposure.

Therapeutic Uses of Birofenid

What Birofenid Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Birofenid is used across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, helping manage symptoms related to physical discomfort, inflammatory states, and systemic imbalance. The preparation is used to provide supportive relief when symptoms create noticeable interference with daily function and comfort.


Key Therapeutic Focus

The medication is indicated for the management of symptomatic discomfort in conditions marked by increased physiological stress, including chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as acute episodes such as sprains, strains, tendinitis, gout flares, and primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain). It also assists with general symptomatic support during febrile states (fever) and helps manage pain following surgical procedures.

The medication is applied when conditions produce significant symptomatic burden.


Therapeutic Focus: Relief for Pain, Inflammation, and Fever

It assists with maintaining functional stability and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases associated with pain, swelling, and elevated body temperature.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Ketoprofen

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Birofenid — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Birofenid is strictly defined by regulatory documents, establishing absolute prohibitions and specific conditional use groups.

Eligibility Scope Official Regulatory Status / Population
Contraindicated Populations The medicine is strictly prohibited for patients with known hypersensitivity to Ketoprofen or other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin-induced asthma). Absolute contraindications also apply to individuals with active peptic ulcers, severe hepatic or renal insufficiency, severe heart failure, and those undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
Age-Related Eligibility Pediatric: Safety and effectiveness are officially not established in the pediatric population, making use generally not recommended in children and adolescents. Geriatric: Older adults are not prohibited, but use requires caution and close monitoring due to an increased susceptibility to adverse reactions, especially those involving renal function.
Conditional Use Patients with mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment or a history of gastrointestinal disorders require close medical supervision. The official labeling mandates monitoring and potential dose limitation in these conditional use groups.
Reproductive Status Use is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy. For the first two trimesters and while breastfeeding, the medicine is generally not recommended due to unestablished safety and infant risk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Birofenid Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documentation identifies several medicinal products and substance categories that exhibit specific interaction patterns with Birofenid (Ketoprofen).

Classification Interacting Agents Interaction Outcome (Regulatory Description)
Contraindicated Combinations Other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), high-dose Salicylates, high-dose Methotrexate Additive risk of severe gastrointestinal ulceration and hemorrhage; severe elevation of Methotrexate plasma levels
Pharmacokinetic Effects Lithium, Methotrexate, Probenecid Reduced renal clearance of the co-administered drug, resulting in elevated plasma concentrations (e.g., Lithium levels increase, Methotrexate exposure increases)
Pharmacodynamic Effects Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Anti-platelet Agents, SSRIs, Alcohol Enhanced risk of bleeding and hemorrhage due to combined effects on platelet function or gastrointestinal mucosa
Antagonism / Reduced Efficacy Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides), ACE Inhibitors, ARBs Diminished antihypertensive or natriuretic effect; increased documented risk of renal failure

Co-administration with Probenecid significantly reduces the plasma clearance of Ketoprofen itself, leading to increased Birofenid concentrations. A specific timing rule exists for co-use with Methotrexate, which must not be administered less than 12 hours before or after the start of a Ketoprofen treatment period. The official label notes that elderly patients and individuals with impaired renal function may be at increased risk of interaction severity due to reduced renal clearance.

Mechanism of Action

How Birofenid Works

Birofenid acts as a non-selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase enzymes, primarily targeting the synthesis of lipid mediators. This action is central to its biological effect profile.


Enzyme-Mediated Signaling Modulation

Birofenid affects Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). By competitively binding to and inhibiting these enzymes, the drug limits the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostanoids. This molecular interference represents the early step that shapes downstream physiological outcomes and results in a decrease in the concentration of localized signaling molecules.


Regulation of Prostaglandin Cascades

The compound directly suppresses the signaling cascade responsible for producing key products like prostaglandins and thromboxanes. These lipid mediators are outputs of the inhibited enzymes and participate in diverse biological systems. The resulting physiological consequence is a reduction in pathway activity and a shift toward basal signaling dynamics within targeted cellular processes.


Control of Localized Mediator Activity

This mechanism regulates the concentration of mediators at the cellular level, specifically those involved in vasodilation, pain-sensing, and pyresis in the hypothalamus. This pathway adjustment reduces the concentration of excessive mediators, leading to defined physiological changes resulting from the altered pathway dynamics.

Dosage and Administration Information

Birofenid, which contains the active ingredient Ketoprofen, is administered via the oral route using Immediate-Release (IR) or Extended-Release (ER) capsules, or through topical application (gel). The specific form used dictates the dosing frequency and schedule.

Official Dosing and Frequency Patterns

Dosage Form Standard Adult Regimen Maximum Daily Dose Frequency Pattern
IR Capsules 50 mg four times daily or 75 mg three times daily 300 mg Multiple times daily (TID/QID) or As Needed (PRN)
ER Capsules 200 mg once daily 200 mg Once daily (QD)

For acute, short-term use, the immediate-release capsules are typically prescribed at 25 mg to 50 mg every six to eight hours as needed. The extended-release form is not recommended for acute pain management.

Administration Conditions and Adjustments

Administration parameters allow the oral dose to be taken with food, milk, or an antacid to support administration. It is a procedural requirement that extended-release capsules be swallowed whole to preserve their integrity and release mechanism; they must not be crushed or chewed. If a scheduled dose is missed, the protocol involves taking it as soon as it is remembered, but to skip the missed dose if the next scheduled dose is near, in order to avoid doubling the amount taken.

Specific dosage modifications are required for certain populations. Older adults should be initiated on a reduced dose. For patients with severe renal impairment (GFR less than 25 mL/min), the maximum recommended dose is restricted to 100 mg per day. A similar 100 mg per day maximum initial dose is specified for those with hepatic impairment and reduced serum albumin.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Birofenid

The research evidence for the active ingredient in Birofenid (Ketoprofen) has been evaluated across its main indications, with studies often classified as High quality. Studies monitored outcomes related to physical discomfort, functional imbalance, and inflammatory states; the evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns observed in various patient groups.

1. Evidence for Use in Chronic Inflammatory Conditions

The research on Birofenid's active component was evaluated in trials exploring conditions characterized by functional limitations and fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. These studies explored outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, as well as the measurement of joint pain severity over defined time intervals. Findings from research, including meta-analyses, data show patterns related to measured changes in reported pain severity and changes in functional status scores that were observed in studies that included comparator treatments.

2. Evidence for Use in Acute Pain and Localized Inflammation

Research examined Birofenid for conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, including post-surgical pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and menstrual pain. These studies primarily utilized short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable. Researchers studied outcomes related to physical discomfort by measuring the time it took for changes in pain intensity to be observed, and the overall magnitude of that change. The evidence contributes to understanding changes measured during the study period for the onset and severity of episodic pain.

3. What Remains Uncertain About Birofenid Research

The research provides context but not individual predictions; findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes. Follow-up durations were limited in many key studies, meaning long-term effects are not fully established for certain chronic uses or after recovery from acute trauma. Additionally, subgroup findings are uncertain due to variability in response observed across specific conditions and patient groups, suggesting that efficacy may vary significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Birofenid (FAQ)


Q: What is the main use of Birofenid?

Birofenid is a prescription medicine indicated for the treatment of chronic, moderate-to-severe pain in adults. According to official product information, it is typically considered when other non-opioid pain relief options have not provided adequate management.


Q: How does Birofenid work in the body to relieve pain?

Studies and official information indicate that Birofenid works by targeting specific pain receptors within the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). It is a type of medicine known as a centrally acting analgesic, meaning it affects how the body perceives and responds to pain signals.


Q: Can I stop taking Birofenid suddenly if my pain goes away?

Regulatory documents state that suddenly stopping Birofenid, especially after prolonged use, is not recommended due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Any changes to the treatment plan, including discontinuation, should only be made in consultation with the prescribing healthcare provider.


Q: Is Birofenid used for short-term pain relief, like after a minor injury?

According to the official product information, Birofenid is primarily indicated for the management of chronic (long-term) pain that is moderate-to-severe. It is generally not intended for use in minor, acute, or short-term pain conditions.


Q: What should I do if I miss a scheduled dose of Birofenid?

Regulatory documents recommend consulting the patient information leaflet or speaking with a healthcare provider regarding specific instructions for a missed dose. Dosage instructions for a missed dose are specific to the individual product and dosing schedule. Official product information consistently advises against taking more than the prescribed amount to compensate for a missed dose.


Q: Does Birofenid cause drowsiness or affect my ability to drive?

Regulatory documents indicate that Birofenid can cause somnolence (drowsiness) and potentially affect alertness and reaction time. Because of these potential effects, regulatory information advises caution regarding tasks requiring full mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.


Q: How quickly does Birofenid start to work after taking a dose?

Official sources indicate that the time Birofenid takes to start working can vary among individuals, but it typically begins to show an effect within 1 to 2 hours of administration. The full, stable pain-relief effect may take longer as the body adjusts to the medicine.

How should Birofenid be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Birofenid?

This section details the mandatory storage and disposal rules for Birofenid (Oral Ketoprofen) as defined by official regulatory documentation.

Storage Requirements

The medicine must be stored at room temperature and kept in its closed container, ensuring the container is tightly closed when not in use. It is required to store the product away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and it must be kept from freezing to maintain its stability. For safety, Birofenid must be stored out of the reach and sight of children.

Disposal Instructions

Official instructions direct that any outdated or unused medicine should not be kept. Users must ask a healthcare professional how to properly and officially dispose of any product they do not use, aligning with pharmaceutical waste guidelines.

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

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