Knavon

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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 Knavon

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredient Ketoprofen (INN)
Pharmacological Class Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Form Versatile (Capsules, Injection Solution, Gel, Suppositories, Tablets, Cream)
General Purpose Relief from pain, swelling, and fever
Origin Synthetic, propionic acid derivative

What Type of Medicine is Knavon and What is its Composition?

Knavon is a pharmaceutical preparation whose active component is the synthetic chemical compound Ketoprofen. It is formally classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), belonging to the propionic acid derivative subclass. This classification confirms its established role as an agent for mitigating inflammatory symptoms.

The active substance, Ketoprofen, is a single-ingredient molecule with the formula C16H14O3. Ketoprofen is categorized as an essential medicine, reflecting its clinically recognized efficacy in managing core inflammatory symptoms. Unlike combination products, Knavon's action is solely attributed to Ketoprofen, simplifying its pharmacological profile.

Knavon: Available Forms and General Function

The general function of Knavon is to provide relief from the symptoms driven by the inflammatory response, specifically pain, swelling, and fever. Ketoprofen achieves this through its mechanism as a cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, which limits the body's synthesis of prostaglandins, the key compounds that mediate inflammation. This means the medicine works by targeting the biological process that causes the discomfort itself.

The drug is produced in multiple dosage forms, allowing for versatile application routes. These forms include capsules and tablets for systemic oral administration, a solution for injection for parenteral use, and gels or creams for local topical application. This wide range ensures that Ketoprofen can be delivered systemically or concentrated locally to suit the nature of the discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Knavon?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Knavon (Ketoprofen) is a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), and its safety characteristics are defined by officially documented patterns outlined in regulatory prescribing information. Adverse reactions are classified by frequency and the System-Organ Class (SOC) affected.

The most frequently reported effects, typically classified as Common, are related to Gastrointestinal disorders, including dyspepsia, nausea, and abdominal pain. Nervous system disorders such as headache and dizziness are also commonly documented. Effects like constipation, diarrhea, rash, and pruritus (itching) are generally classified as Uncommon.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Key Safety Constraints

Regulatory documents emphasize the potential for serious adverse reactions. These include the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, and perforation, which can be fatal. Like other NSAIDs, Ketoprofen is associated with a risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as myocardial infarction and stroke), particularly with long-term use and high doses. Severe hypersensitivity reactions and serious skin reactions are also officially listed concerns.

Specific Population-Specific Safety Considerations exist. The risk of serious adverse reactions, especially GI bleeding and renal impairment, is officially noted to be increased in older adults. Furthermore, the label restricts use in patients with severe cardiac, renal, or hepatic failure, and during the third trimester of pregnancy. Some adverse effects are officially noted as more frequently observed at the start of treatment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

A Knavon (Ketoprofen) overdose is classified as a serious or life-threatening event by regulatory authorities. The documented systemic manifestations may range from gastrointestinal effects like nausea, vomiting, severe stomach pain, and hemorrhage, to Central Nervous System findings such as confusion, severe drowsiness, unsteadiness, and potentially seizures or coma. Other severe outcomes include cardiovascular effects (hypertension or hypotension) and the risk of acute renal failure.

Immediate medical attention or contacting a Poison Control Center is required when an overdose is suspected, particularly if severe signs like shallow breathing, seizures, or profound changes in consciousness are present. The regulatory basis for managing this toxicity is that no specific antidote is known for Ketoprofen.

Treatment therefore relies solely upon symptomatic and supportive care. Procedural interventions described in regulatory documents, such as gastric decontamination or administration of activated charcoal, may be indicated under specific conditions like the ingestion of a large dose. Professional monitoring, including assessment of vital signs, blood tests, and an ECG, is required due to the established potential for severe complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Knavon

What Knavon Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Knavon (Ketoprofen) is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms across multiple clinical domains characterized by pain, inflammation, and fever. It is applied in contexts where temporary or long-term assistance is needed to ease the overall burden of physical discomfort. It is indicated for managing several acute and chronic conditions.

The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute or recurrent episodes, including symptomatic relief for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, acute gout, tendinitis, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), and discomfort following sprains or strains. It is also applied in addressing general pain, such as that following dental or orthopaedic surgery, and for the management of accompanying fever.

It supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and is primarily relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort. Knavon contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods and may assist with maintaining functional stability.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support

Characteristic Primary Therapeutic Role
Domain Symptomatic management of pain, swelling, and fever
Contexts Chronic joint disorders, acute inflammatory episodes, post-procedural pain
Targeted Symptoms Symptoms related to physical discomfort (mild to moderate)
Therapeutic Focus Contributes to easing the overall symptom load; assists with maintaining functional stability

Regulatory References

  1. Health Canada Product Monograph

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Knavon?

Eligibility for Knavon (Ketoprofen) use is strictly defined by regulatory authorities based on a patient's age, medical history, and physiological status. The medicine is primarily approved for use in adults (typically 18 years and older).


Absolute Contraindications

Knavon is contraindicated and must not be used in several patient populations, according to official labeling:

  • Patients with documented hypersensitivity to Ketoprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID.
  • Patients with active peptic ulcer or a history of recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding/ulceration.
  • Patients with severe renal, severe hepatic, or severe heart failure.
  • Women in the third trimester of pregnancy.
  • Patients in the setting of peri-operative pain for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Age and Conditional Restrictions

Pediatric patients (under 18 years) are generally not recommended to use systemic Knavon, as safety and efficacy have not been established. Older adults require caution due to increased risks. Use is not recommended during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy and throughout lactation. Patients with mild-to-moderate impairment in kidney or liver function require close monitoring and may have restrictions on use.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Knavon (Ketoprofen) interactions are officially documented across several domains, primarily involving pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects with other substances. Co-administration is strictly contraindicated in patients managing peri-operative pain for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery, and in those with a history of allergic-type reactions to aspirin or other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

Increased Risk of Gastrointestinal and Bleeding Events

Co-administration with other NSAIDs, oral corticosteroids, Anticoagulants (such as Warfarin), Antiplatelet Agents, and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) is associated with an officially documented increased risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and adverse events due to additive pharmacodynamic effects confirmed in regulatory labeling.

Effects on Drug Exposure and Clearance

Regulatory documents confirm that Ketoprofen decreases the renal clearance of both Lithium and Methotrexate, which can result in elevated plasma concentrations and potential toxicity of those co-administered drugs. Probenecid is also noted to reduce the plasma clearance of Ketoprofen itself, increasing systemic exposure.

Renal and Substance Interactions

Co-administration with Diuretics and ACE Inhibitors/ARBs carries a documented risk of renal impairment, including the potential loss of the antihypertensive effect. Alcohol consumption is officially noted to exacerbate the risk of stomach bleeding. Specific population notes caution that elderly patients are at greater risk for serious GI events, and the drug’s metabolite can accumulate in patients with renal impairment.

Mechanism of Action

Knavon (Ketoprofen) works by executing a precise biological strategy focused exclusively on modulating key enzyme systems and pathways central to physiological regulation. Its mechanism directly alters the body's signaling dynamics at a molecular level to produce mechanistically defined physiological adjustments.

Non-Selective Inhibition of COX Enzymes

The primary action involves the competitive and reversible inhibition of both the Cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes. This dual blockade disrupts the early molecular steps of the arachidonic acid cascade, significantly suppressing the entire synthesis of prostaglandins and related mediators. This fundamental intervention modifies one of the key pathways associated with prostanoid-driven physiological processes.

Modulating PGE₂ Signaling for Systemic Effect

The resulting suppression of Prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) is crucial, as this molecule is central to regulating nociception and thermoregulation. By engaging mechanisms that regulate this prostaglandin synthesis pathway, the drug achieves a dual central and peripheral effect. This leads to mechanistically derived adjustments: a reduction in the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors and a readjustment of the hypothalamic thermoregulatory set point.

⏱️ Mechanism Constraints

The drug acts within domains involving rapid, enzyme-mediated signaling, but its action is reversible, meaning the mechanism is dependent on the molecule’s continuous presence at the enzyme site to sustain its effect. Furthermore, the non-selective mechanism necessarily limits the synthesis of both COX-2-derived and COX-1-derived prostaglandins, which defines the boundary of its mechanism’s constraints.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Knavon

Knavon (Ketoprofen) administration involves specific routes, schedules, and dose adjustments. The active substance is available for several routes, including oral forms (capsules, tablets), topical applications (gels, creams), and parenteral use (injection solution).


Official Dosing Patterns

Knavon is generally categorized into two main systemic use patterns based on the release mechanism:

  • Immediate-Release (IR) Oral Forms: These are typically administered in divided doses throughout the day to maintain systemic concentrations, such as 50 mg four times daily (QID) or 75 mg three times daily (TID). The maximum recommended daily dose for IR forms is 300 mg. For short-term use, dosing can be 25 mg to 50 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed (PRN).
  • Extended-Release (ER) Oral Capsules: These forms are designated for once-daily (QD) administration, often at a 200 mg strength, and are not intended for use in acute pain episodes.

Administration and Procedural Rules

Oral forms of Knavon may be taken with food, milk, or antacids; while this may slow the absorption rate, it does not alter the total amount of drug absorbed. It is instructed to take the oral dose with a full glass of water. A crucial procedural instruction is that the extended-release capsules must not be crushed, chewed, or opened due to the risk of altering the drug's intended release profile.

Population-Specific Use Adjustments

Treatment is typically initiated at the lowest effective dose for older adults (ge 65 years). Dose reduction is also utilized for patients presenting with certain degrees of renal or hepatic impairment. For instance, the dose may be limited to 150 mg/day in patients with mild renal impairment. If a scheduled dose is missed, the general practice is to skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next one, and then continue with the regular schedule.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Knavon

Research has explored Knavon (Ketoprofen) across various pain conditions using controlled trials and systematic reviews. The available evidence base describes two primary areas of focus: chronic joint pain and acute, episodic pain.


Evidence from Studies of Chronic Joint and Muscle Pain

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have evaluated the medicine in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). These studies monitored outcomes related to functional capacity and patient-reported discomfort over defined study periods. Findings describe patterns observed in these populations, often comparing outcomes against other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or placebo. Research has also examined topical formulations, where evidence suggests that application to the skin was associated with measurable effects in reducing localized discomfort in OA, though follow-up durations for long-term functional maintenance remain limited.


Evidence from Studies of Acute and Episodic Pain

In scenarios involving acute, moderate-to-severe pain, such as following dental or surgical procedures, trials examined short-term changes. These studies tracked outcomes like the time required for a noticeable change in pain intensity and the need for additional pain relief medication. Findings describe rapid onset of measured changes following a single dose. The medicine was also studied for primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), where research explored the effect on episodic pain intensity and associated systemic symptoms.


Long-Term Follow-up and Special Populations

Across all indications, the primary research limitation is the availability of data from long-term follow-up periods. Existing studies primarily provide insight into short-term changes and episodic management. Data for certain groups, such as those with multiple chronic conditions or specific pediatric populations, remain insufficient. The evidence highlights what is known through observed group patterns, and what is still uncertain regarding sustained outcomes over extended periods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Knavon (FAQ)


Q: Can Knavon be used by children, and is it a different formulation?

Systemic use of Knavon (oral forms, etc.) is primarily approved for adults. Official regulatory information indicates that safety and effectiveness for systemic use in patients under 18 years of age have generally not been established. While certain formulations might exist for topical use, systemic administration is typically reserved for adult populations.


Q: Why do official documents mention 'risk of hypersensitivity' with Knavon?

The risk of hypersensitivity (severe allergic reactions) is noted because Knavon belongs to the class of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Regulatory documents caution that people sensitive to aspirin or other NSAIDs may experience cross-reactivity with Knavon.


Q: Why do some people experience initial dizziness or fatigue when starting Knavon?

Dizziness and drowsiness are common effects categorized as nervous system disorders in the drug's official adverse reaction reports. Regulatory information notes that some effects, including these, may be observed more frequently during the initial period of treatment, based on documented patterns of adverse events.


Q: Can taking Knavon affect the results of blood tests?

Official information indicates that Knavon can affect certain laboratory parameters. Specifically, it has been noted to inhibit platelet aggregation and may prolong bleeding time. It may also increase the levels of certain co-administered drugs like Lithium or Methotrexate in the body, which requires monitoring of those levels.


Q: Does Knavon interact with caffeine or alcohol?

Regulatory warnings specifically note that consuming alcohol with Knavon is associated with an increased risk of serious stomach bleeding. Regulatory documents prioritize listing major pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions with other medicines, but do not typically mandate the listing of caffeine.


Q: Are the side effects of Knavon dose-dependent, according to studies?

Yes, regulatory labeling confirms a relationship between dose, duration, and risk. Official warnings emphasize that the risk of serious adverse events, particularly related to the cardiovascular system and the stomach/intestines, can increase with both higher doses and a longer duration of use.


Q: How does Knavon compare to placebo in clinical trials for its primary use?

Clinical trial summaries used for regulatory review often describe Knavon as providing significantly superior pain relief compared to an inactive placebo. Clinical data often describes outcomes where the drug was associated with a shorter time to onset of measurable changes and greater pain intensity reduction compared to placebo.


Q: How quickly can I expect to notice any effects from Knavon?

Studies of the medicine in acute pain conditions have tracked the time required for a noticeable change in pain intensity. Findings from these research overviews often describe a rapid onset of measured changes following the administration of a single dose.


Q: Is Knavon considered a long-term or short-term medication?

Knavon is approved for both chronic conditions and acute, short-term pain episodes. However, official regulatory warnings emphasize that due to documented risks, particularly cardiovascular and gastrointestinal events, the lowest effective use for the shortest duration is generally recommended.


Q: Can Knavon cause changes in mood or sleep?

Yes, official documents list Nervous System Disorders as a potential class of adverse reactions. This may include uncommon effects such as nervousness, nightmares, and depression that have been reported.


Q: Are there any specific organs Knavon might affect over time?

Regulatory documents caution about potential adverse effects on several organ systems. These include serious warnings regarding the gastrointestinal system (ulceration/bleeding), the renal system (kidney function), and the hepatic system (liver function). The warnings relate to potential risks associated with prolonged use.


Q: How long does Knavon typically stay in the body after the last use?

Pharmacokinetics data from regulatory documents indicate that the drug's elimination half-life is typically around 2 to 4 hours. Most of the administered dose is generally processed and excreted from the body within 24 hours of the last use.


Q: Is Knavon the same type of medicine as an antibiotic?

No. Knavon is formally classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), which is used to manage pain and inflammation symptoms. Antibiotics are a distinct class of medicines used only for treating bacterial infections.


Q: Does Knavon have a 'black box warning' from regulatory bodies?

Yes. Regulatory bodies like the FDA require a Boxed Warning (the most serious warning required by the FDA) for Knavon. This warning addresses the serious documented risks of cardiovascular thrombotic events (like heart attack or stroke) and major gastrointestinal adverse events (like bleeding or ulceration).


Q: Does Knavon carry a risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms?

No. Knavon (Ketoprofen) is classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). It is not designated as a controlled substance by regulatory agencies and is not known to be associated with risks of physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms.


Q: What kind of research has been conducted on the long-term safety of Knavon?

Official research summaries primarily focus on findings from studies of short-term and episodic management. Regulatory evidence overviews highlight that the availability of data from long-term follow-up periods is a primary limitation in the existing evidence base for NSAIDs overall.


Q: Does Knavon have different names in other countries?

Yes. While the active ingredient is officially known by the global designation Ketoprofen, the commercial product may be sold under various other brand names in different countries where 'Knavon' is not the registered name.


Q: What information is provided in the official patient leaflet for Knavon?

Official guidance requires that a Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or Medication Guide (MedGuide) be provided with the product. This document summarizes key information on the drug’s purpose, administration, known side effects, serious warnings (including the Boxed Warning), and required storage.


Q: Why is monitoring sometimes required while using Knavon?

Monitoring is necessary due to the potential for serious adverse reactions and drug interactions. Official documents mandate monitoring, particularly for patients with compromised kidney or liver function and for those taking concomitant medicines like Lithium or Methotrexate, to manage potential risks.


Q: Is it common for Knavon to cause dry mouth?

Dry mouth has been reported as a potential side effect in regulatory documents, typically classified as Uncommon or Rare. This means it is not among the most frequently documented reactions, such as nausea or headache.


Q: Is Knavon the same as a biologic drug?

No. Knavon is classified as a small molecule, Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), which is a synthetic chemical compound. Biologic drugs are a separate class of large, complex medicines often derived from living cells.


Q: What makes Knavon a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM)?

Knavon is classified as a Prescription-Only Medicine because its use requires professional supervision. This is due to significant documented risks, including a Boxed Warning regarding serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, and the need for personalized assessment of a patient's health status.


Q: Can Knavon be used safely before or after a scheduled surgery?

Official warnings state that Knavon is contraindicated (must not be used) for the management of peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery due to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Guidance for other types of surgery is not uniformly addressed in the regulatory label and depends on multiple factors.


Q: Is Knavon known to cause weight changes in patients?

Weight changes are officially documented as a potential effect. Regulatory safety information lists both reports of weight gain and weight loss as possible adverse reactions.


Q: Does Knavon affect blood pressure?

Yes. Official warnings indicate that Knavon can cause new onset of hypertension (high blood pressure) or may worsen existing hypertension. It is also noted that the drug may interfere with the intended effect of certain blood pressure medicines.


Q: Is Knavon a controlled substance?

No. Knavon (Ketoprofen) is an Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and is not listed on any schedule of controlled substances by regulatory agencies.

How should Knavon be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Knavon

Knavon (Ketoprofen) must be stored and handled according to specific requirements to maintain its integrity and ensure public safety.

Storage Requirements

  • Temperature: Store at controlled room temperature, generally between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Brief excursions up to 30°C (86°F) are permitted.
  • Protection: The product must be protected from freezing, excessive heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Container and Safety: Keep the medicine in its original container, tightly closed, and stored out of the reach and sight of children.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Knavon should be disposed of via an authorized drug take-back program. If this is not available, the medicine may be mixed with an unappealing substance, sealed in a bag, and thrown into the household trash. The product is not on the FDA flush list and should not be disposed of down any drain or toilet.

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

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