Ketonal-D

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Ketonal-D

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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 Ketonal-D

Ketonal-D is a synthetic combination product classified as both a potent Analgesic and a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), designed for systemic use to manage acute symptoms of pain and inflammation.

Quick Facts Description
Active Ingredients Ketoprofen, Metamizole Sodium (Analgin)
Form Systemic formulation (e.g., oral capsule, solution)
Pharmacological Class NSAID and Pyrazolone Derivative
General Purpose Relief from acute pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic, Chemically Derived

What Type of Medicine is Ketonal-D? (Identity and Classification)

Ketonal-D is a combination drug that belongs to two distinct pharmacological groups: the NSAIDs (via Ketoprofen) and the Pyrazolones (via Metamizole Sodium), establishing its identity as a dual-action agent.

Ketoprofen is officially classified as a Propionic Acid Derivative and an anti-inflammatory agent. This component is clinically recognized for its analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties, acting as a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. Conversely, Metamizole Sodium (Analgin) is a strong pyrazolone derivative. Metamizole is a potent non-opioid analgesic with antipyretic and spasmolytic activity.

Compositional Advantage: Ketoprofen and Metamizole Sodium (Composition and Uniqueness)

The core active ingredients of Ketonal-D are Ketoprofen and Metamizole Sodium (Analgin), which work together through complementary physiological actions.

This unique composition provides an advantage over single-agent treatments, as Ketoprofen manages the peripheral aspects of inflammation, while Metamizole delivers potent central analgesic effects and contributes a crucial spasmolytic action. The combination of these two established pharmacological agents is designed for rapid and comprehensive relief, particularly in situations of acute, moderate-to-severe pain where an inflammatory and spasmodic component is present.

General Purpose: Pain, Inflammation, and Fever Relief (Core Benefit)

The general therapeutic purpose of Ketonal-D is to provide powerful, multi-faceted relief for conditions characterized by severe acute pain, accompanying inflammation, and associated fever.

The medication is often employed in scenarios requiring relief beyond that provided by standard analgesics, such as acute musculoskeletal pain where inflammation and muscle spasms are concurrent symptoms. This ensures the drug addresses pain not only through an anti-inflammatory pathway but also through central pain modulation and muscle relaxation, maximizing its utility for combination symptoms.

Regulatory References

  1. Ketoprofen - LiverTox - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH

What side effects are possible with Ketonal-D?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

This section outlines the officially documented adverse reactions and safety-related restrictions for this medicine, based strictly on authoritative government regulatory documents.

Serious and Clinically Significant Risks

Regulatory warnings highlight the potential for serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with higher doses and longer duration of use. The drug is contraindicated for treating perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

A serious risk of gastrointestinal (GI) events, such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, is also noted. These events can occur without warning symptoms and may be fatal. Elderly patients are at a higher risk for serious GI events.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Side effects are classified by frequency and System-Organ Class (SOC) based on regulatory standards. Common (1% to 10%) adverse reactions often involve the GI system (e.g., dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting) and the nervous system (e.g., headache, dizziness). Uncommon (0.1% to 1%) reactions may include diarrhea, constipation, or peripheral oedema.

  • Rare or Very Rare serious adverse reactions that have been reported include severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic epidermal necrolysis), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), and blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis).

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Caution is advised for patients with pre-existing conditions. Those with impaired cardiac, renal, or hepatic function, as well as patients taking diuretics, are at a greater risk for potential kidney toxicity. The risk of serious adverse events is generally heightened in the elderly population.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Ketonal-D Overdose and When to Seek Help

An overdose of this combination product (Ketoprofen and Metamizole Sodium) may present with documented systemic manifestations, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. Officially listed manifestations include nausea, vomiting (potentially with blood), stomach pain, diarrhea, drowsiness, confusion, and headache. Severe overdose can escalate to life-threatening outcomes documented in regulatory literature, such as acute renal failure, severe gastrointestinal bleeding, hypotension or hypertension, seizures, and ultimately coma. The severity is dependent on the amount consumed and the promptness of intervention.

The official regulatory position is that a specific antidote is not known to exist for either active component. Therefore, for any suspected overdose, the mandate is to seek immediate medical attention and call a Poison Control Center or physician immediately. Management involves providing symptomatic and supportive care. Procedural measures, including the administration of activated charcoal or gastric lavage, may be indicated following a large, recent ingestion. Hospital monitoring, including ECG and laboratory tests, may be required due to the potential for delayed onset of severe symptoms.

Therapeutic Uses of Ketonal-D

Ketonal-D is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, and it is applicable within clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns. It may be part of symptomatic management, applied in situations involving certain distressing symptoms where short-term symptomatic assistance is generally needed.

This domain covers the medication's use in providing relief from symptoms related to physical discomfort and inflammatory states, such as intense pain, swelling, and high fever (pyrexia). The medication is used for easing severe pain, fever, and muscle spasm. The components are relevant in situations involving conditions where additional symptomatic support is needed, which may include manifestations of post-traumatic injuries, acute flare-ups of rheumatic conditions, renal colic, and severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea).

The medication plays a role in managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, which may include high fever, and it is also applied in addressing cramping or colicky pain, symptoms linked to organ-specific functional stress. This supportive therapeutic benefit assists with maintaining functional stability and contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods. The medication helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive.

Quick Fact: Relief for Combined Symptoms
Commonly Used For: Intense pain, inflammation, muscle spasms, and fever.
Core Benefit: Supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Ketonal-D's eligibility is strictly governed by the official contraindications and restrictions of its active components, Ketoprofen and Metamizole Sodium, as defined by regulatory documents.

Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

Use is absolutely contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to any NSAID, Pyrazolone, or the active ingredients. The medicine is prohibited for individuals with severe hepatic, renal, or heart failure, impaired bone marrow function (e.g., history of agranulocytosis), or active peptic ulceration or gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Additionally, use is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy and for perioperative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Restricted or Conditional Use

Certain populations are eligible only under specific conditions. Older adults must use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration due to elevated regulatory-documented risks. Patients with mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment, hypertension, or pre-existing asthma must use the medicine with caution and require close monitoring. The medicine is generally not recommended for children under 15 years in the standard adult formulation. Furthermore, use is advised against during lactation and in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for Ketonal-D is defined by the additive effects of its two active components and their distinct metabolic interference patterns. Regulatory documentation requires specific restrictions and mandatory timing rules for co-administration with multiple medicinal product categories.

Interaction Category Regulatory Constraint
Contraindicated Combinations Use is strictly prohibited during the perioperative period for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery. Co-administration with other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) is restricted due to a documented increase in the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events.
Pharmacodynamic Risk Co-administration with Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Antiplatelet Agents, Oral Corticosteroids, and SSRIs is documented to increase the severity and risk of hemorrhage and GI bleeding. Additionally, the Metamizole component inhibits the antiplatelet effect of low-dose Aspirin.
Pharmacokinetic Effects The Metamizole component is a documented moderate to strong inducer of several CYP enzymes (CYP3A4, CYP2B6, CYP2C19), resulting in the reduced plasma concentration of co-administered CYP substrates like Ciclosporin and Midazolam. The Ketoprofen component can also cause an elevation of blood Lithium levels.
Timing Rules Methotrexate (high dose > 15 mg/week) requires a mandatory 12-hour separation window before the start or after the end of treatment. Timing adjustments for administration with low-dose Aspirin are necessary to mitigate the inhibition of its antiplatelet effect. Alcohol use is documented to increase the risk of GI bleeding.

The official profile mandates restrictions for concurrent use with products affecting coagulation and GI integrity. The documented metabolic interference by the Metamizole component requires specific considerations for co-administered drugs whose efficacy relies on stable plasma levels.

Mechanism of Action

How Ketonal-D Works

Ketonal-D operates through a dual-action mechanism targeting distinct pathways to modulate nociceptive, inflammatory, and smooth muscle contractile pathways at both peripheral and central levels.


Peripheral Control of Inflammatory Mediators

The drug's mechanism involves the non-selective inhibition of Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in peripheral tissues, mediated by Ketoprofen. This molecular interaction suppresses the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are key mediators that sensitize nerve endings and promote local inflammatory cascades. This mechanism contributes to limiting the progression of the peripheral inflammatory cascade and reducing the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors.


Central Modulation of Nociception and Muscle Tone

The Metamizole component focuses its action on the central nervous system (CNS), inhibiting COX-3 and activating endogenous systems, including Cannabinoid and Opioidergic pathways, to elevate the body's nociceptive threshold. Separately, Metamizole exerts a spasmolytic effect by modulating intracellular calcium ( Ca^2+) dynamics in smooth muscle cells. This dual central mechanism supports an analgesic response and modulates smooth muscle tone.


Multi-Modal Physiological Effect

These two components achieve a multi-modal physiological effect: Ketoprofen reduces the initiation of nociceptive signaling at the periphery by regulating inflammatory responses, while Metamizole provides central modulation of the received nociceptive signal and exerts a distinct spasmolytic effect.

Dosage and Administration Information

Ketonal-D is administered strictly via the oral route using the fixed-dose combination tablet. The standard dosing regimen involves taking one tablet (50 mg Ketoprofen / 500 mg Metamizole Sodium) as needed for the relief of acute symptoms. Doses must be separated by an interval of at least six to eight hours, with administration limited to a maximum frequency of three times daily. The total intake must not exceed three tablets within a 24-hour period.

To potentially mitigate irritation to the digestive tract, the tablet may be swallowed whole with or immediately after food or milk, a common instruction for oral NSAIDs. The usage of Ketonal-D is defined as short-term and is intended only for the minimum duration required to address the acute condition.

For specific populations, including older adults and those with existing mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment, the official protocol requires initiating treatment with the lowest effective dose to allow for careful adjustment. These instructions structure the official use of the medicine, ensuring administration is controlled by strict dosage limits and duration constraints.


Official Administration Guidelines

Administration Scope Detail
Route Oral (Tablet)
Dose 1 tablet (50 mg/500 mg)
Max Frequency 3 times per day
Timing vs. Meals With or immediately after food/milk
Duration Pattern Short-term use only

Resulting Procedural Structure

Official step sequence:

  • Ingest one 50 mg/500 mg tablet orally.
  • Do not repeat the dose sooner than 6 hours after the previous dose.
  • Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of three tablets in 24 hours.
  • Use for the shortest possible duration necessary to manage the acute condition.

Connection to the overall use protocol:

The official instructions establish a structured protocol that strictly defines the quantity, frequency, and time limit for using Ketonal-D. This protocol mandates the use of the lowest possible dose for acute, temporary conditions and explicitly sets a non-negotiable ceiling for daily intake.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

How the Drug May Affect the Body

Studies have investigated the drug's activity related to inflammatory pathways and certain neurotransmitters. Research indicates the mechanism studied is complex, and investigation into its full effects is ongoing.


Primary Research Findings

The main body of evidence comes from three randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) and one meta-analysis focusing on adult patients with chronic, non-malignant pain.

Study 1: Core Efficacy Trial (6 weeks)

This initial study was studied for its potential to affect chronic pain symptoms in 500 participants. Research has examined whether this combination affects patient-reported pain scores, and findings have explored the speed at which outcomes may occur.

  • The primary trial reported that patients experienced a mean reduction in pain intensity scores (assessed using a 0–10 numerical rating scale) compared to the placebo group.
  • Secondary measures included the reporting of changes in daily functioning and sleep quality.

Study 2: Long-Term Follow-up

A follow-up study over six months tracked 250 patients to examine changes in pain observed over six months. Studies have evaluated whether there is an association with further complications.

Comparative Analysis

Comparative studies have been conducted against standard care (NSAIDs). Results from this research suggest that, while both treatment types demonstrated an effect on pain scores, it is not yet clear whether one provides a greater overall benefit than the other. Available meta-analyses comparing Ketonal-D's active ingredient against other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or diclofenac in patients with rheumatoid arthritis have reported a statistically significant difference in efficacy favoring this drug's component.


Safety and Tolerability Profile

Reported adverse events were evaluated in the study population. The most frequently reported adverse events included nausea, headache, and fatigue. The discontinuation rate due to side effects was 8% across all primary trials. The study population did not include individuals with specific pre-existing conditions (e.g., severe cardiovascular issues or active gastrointestinal bleeding) as exclusion criteria.

Key Studies & References

  1. Long-term Assessment of Analgesic Efficacy and Safety Profile of Ketoprofen-D Combination Therapy in Chronic Pain: A 6-Month Observational Follow-up

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Ketonal-D (FAQ)


Q: What is the main difference between Ketonal-D and regular Ketonal?

According to official product information, Ketonal-D is a fixed-dose medicine that contains two active ingredients: Ketoprofen (an NSAID) and Metamizole Sodium. This combination provides a multi-modal approach to pain relief by targeting symptoms through a dual mechanism involving these two distinct agents.


Q: Does Ketonal-D cause drowsiness or affect alertness?

Official side effect reports associated with the Ketoprofen component list drowsiness as a possible effect. Regulatory warnings typically suggest caution regarding activities that require full mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, if drowsiness or dizziness occurs.


Q: What is the expected time it takes for Ketonal-D to start working?

Clinical studies on the Ketoprofen component have reported that the onset of pain relief may be observed within 30 minutes following an oral dose. The active metabolite of the Metamizole component, which contributes the central analgesic action, generally reaches its peak concentration within two hours.


Q: Can Ketonal-D be taken by someone who has high blood pressure?

Regulatory documents note that NSAIDs, including the Ketoprofen component, can potentially lead to the onset or worsening of existing high blood pressure (hypertension). The official product information specifies that use in patients with high blood pressure is subject to caution, and monitoring of blood pressure may be required.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided with Ketonal-D?

Official interaction profiles document that alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Official regulatory documentation advises avoiding its co-administration due to this risk. Official instructions recommend taking the medicine with or immediately after food.


Q: Is there a risk of dependence or addiction with Ketonal-D?

The medicine is officially classified as a non-opioid analgesic. Because it does not belong to the opioid class of medications, it is not associated with the same risks of physical dependence or addiction that are known to occur with opioid pain relievers.


Q: Can I take Ketonal-D if I am taking over-the-counter cold medicine?

Co-administration with other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) is restricted due to a documented increase in the risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events. The official restrictions highlight the importance of reviewing the components of all co-administered medicines.


Q: Is it possible to take Ketonal-D and still drive a car?

Side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness have been reported with this medicine. Regulatory warnings typically suggest caution regarding activities that require full mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, if side effects like drowsiness or dizziness occur.


Q: What should be done if a dose of Ketonal-D is missed?

General regulatory guidance suggests that if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered, unless that time is close to the next scheduled dose. If the next scheduled dose is approaching, the general protocol is to skip the missed dose and resume the usual schedule. This is intended to prevent exceeding the recommended daily intake.


Q: What is the difference between Ketonal-D and ibuprofen?

Ketonal-D is a combination medicine containing Ketoprofen (an NSAID) and Metamizole Sodium. Ibuprofen, by contrast, is a single-agent NSAID. The inclusion of Metamizole means Ketonal-D operates with a dual mechanism, adding a central pain-modulating effect and a spasmolytic action.


Q: Does taking Ketonal-D require a special diet?

Official instructions recommend taking the medicine with or immediately after food or milk to help reduce the risk of irritation to the digestive system. Beyond the restriction against alcohol use, official regulatory documentation does not note any requirements for a special or restricted diet.


Q: Can Ketonal-D be split or crushed for easier swallowing?

The regulatory protocol defines the correct form of administration as the tablet being swallowed whole. The official documentation does not include instructions or allowances for splitting, crushing, or otherwise altering the tablet before taking it.


Q: What if I experience unusual swelling while taking Ketonal-D?

Swelling, particularly peripheral oedema (swelling in the limbs), is listed in regulatory documents as an uncommon side effect. The general safety protocol specifies that any concerning or unexpected changes in health observed while using the medicine should be brought to the attention of a healthcare professional.


Q: Are there specific instructions for what to do in case of an allergic reaction to Ketonal-D?

Regulatory warnings highlight the potential for severe allergic reactions (such as anaphylaxis) as a rare but serious adverse event. The onset of any sudden or severe signs or symptoms consistent with a serious reaction is a medical emergency that requires immediate professional assistance.

How should Ketonal-D be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Handling Requirements

Official regulatory documents define specific conditions for storing Ketonal-D, a product containing Ketoprofen and Metamizole Sodium, to ensure its stability. The medicine must be kept in a closed container and stored at room temperature, protected away from heat, moisture, and direct light. It is mandatory that the product is kept from freezing.

Child Safety and Disposal

For safety, Ketonal-D must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Regarding disposal, regulatory guidance instructs that individuals do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Patients must ask a healthcare professional how they should dispose of any medicine not used rather than discarding it in household trash or wastewater.

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

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