Bi-Profenid

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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 Bi-Profenid

Property Description
Active ingredient Ketoprofen (INN)
Form Oral modified-release bi-layer tablet
Pharmacological class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common use Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antipyretic action
Origin Synthetic (Propionic acid derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Bi-Profenid?

Bi-Profenid is a medication requiring a prescription, containing the single active substance, Ketoprofen. It is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), a major class of medication widely used in clinical practice and recognized for its ability to address pain and inflammation.

Ketoprofen is chemically defined as a Propionic acid derivative, confirming its synthetic origin. This classification dictates that the drug's fundamental action is to function as a Cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor. This distinct chemical structure and mechanism separate it from other analgesic categories.

Pharmaceutical Form and Release Profile

Bi-Profenid is provided as an oral modified-release tablet, engineered for patient convenience and consistent delivery. This formulation's core feature is its construction as a bi-layer tablet, which dictates a biphasic release profile for the active ingredient.

This unique two-stage design is clinically recognized for providing both rapid onset and sustained action. The tablet is precisely formulated so that one layer ensures an immediate release of Ketoprofen for quick effect, while the second, slower-release portion maintains a therapeutic level over an extended duration. This design is primarily intended to provide consistent symptom management and reduce the necessary frequency of administration compared to standard immediate-release forms.

General Purpose and Action Profile

The general purpose of Bi-Profenid is to manage discomfort and symptoms arising from inflammatory processes. As a comprehensive NSAID, the medication is established to provide a combined anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) effect. This dual action helps to both decrease inflammation and alleviate the resulting pain and stiffness. Furthermore, its action profile is consistent with other drugs in this class, offering an accompanying antipyretic capacity, meaning it generally assists in the reduction of elevated body temperature, which is often symptomatic of inflammatory conditions.

What side effects are possible with Bi-Profenid?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Bi-Profenid, which contains the active substance ketoprofen, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) whose safety profile includes risks common to its class. The risk of serious adverse reactions may be minimized by using the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary.


Serious and Clinically Significant Risks

Ketoprofen carries a regulatory warning regarding the potential for serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and can increase with longer use. The medication is contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Another major risk is serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can also be fatal. These events may occur without warning symptoms.

Rare, but serious, reactions include acute liver injury, severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, and severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome.


Common Adverse Reactions

Commonly reported side effects primarily involve the gastrointestinal system, such as dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. Other common reactions include headache and dizziness. The frequency of serious effects (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, acute renal injury) is generally classified as rare or very rare.


Population-Specific Considerations

Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal and cardiovascular adverse events. The medication is contraindicated during the last trimester of pregnancy (after 30 weeks) due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and potential fetal renal dysfunction.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Bi-Profenid Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for Ketoprofen overdose is based on documented multi-system effects and mandated emergency actions.

Element Regulatory Statement
Documented Manifestations Symptoms may include gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, stomach pain), CNS signs (drowsiness, lack of energy, blurred vision, headache), and shallow breathing.
Severe Outcomes Ingestion of large doses is associated with life-threatening events, including seizures, coma, severe gastrointestinal bleeding, acute renal failure, and blood pressure disturbances (hypotension/hypotension).
Population-Specific Note Older adults are at a greater risk for serious gastrointestinal complications, and patients with pre-existing organ dysfunction face increased toxicity risk.
Emergency Action Required Seek immediate medical attention. Call the local emergency number or the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) without delay.

Management and Monitoring No specific antidote is known for Ketoprofen overdose; treatment is strictly symptomatic and supportive. Post-overdose procedures require close clinical monitoring of vital signs, alongside diagnostic tests such as blood and urine tests and an ECG. Interventions may include endoscopy or, in severe cases of kidney damage, dialysis until renal function returns. The regulatory guidance mandates seeking professional medical help immediately for any suspected ingestion to manage these critical and documented risks.

Therapeutic Uses of Bi-Profenid

Bi-Profenid is relevant in areas where additional symptomatic support is needed for symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes or fluctuating manifestations, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, sprains, and painful menstrual cramps (primary dysmenorrhea).

The medication is generally applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable due to chronic flares or sudden injury. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as moderate-to-severe pain in post-operative contexts or the severe discomfort of acute gout flares or renal colic.

“It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden and assists with maintaining functional stability when symptoms are more noticeable.”

This supportive symptomatic approach helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes and contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened physical distress.


Quick Fact: Relief for Pain and Inflammation

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Ketoprofen

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Bi-Profenid (Ketoprofen) is an NSAID subject to strict eligibility rules defined by government regulatory authorities. Use is generally established for adults who do not have documented contraindications.

Populations Contraindicated

The medicine is formally contraindicated in several populations due to significant labeled risks. These absolute prohibitions include individuals with a history of allergic-type reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, patients with an active peptic ulcer or recurrent gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding history, and those with severe heart failure, severe renal impairment, or severe hepatic impairment. It must also not be used for pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Age and Life Stage Restrictions

Regarding Age and Developmental Status, safety and effectiveness have not been established in the pediatric population. Use is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy and is generally not recommended for breastfeeding women.

Restricted or Conditional Use

Older adults may use the medicine but require restricted use, typically necessitating the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration due to an increased risk of GI and renal events. Patients with mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment also require cautious, monitored use, as defined in official prescribing information.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Bi-Profenid (Ketoprofen) describes specific interaction patterns with other medicinal products and substances, classifying these outcomes based on pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic mechanisms.

Contraindicated and Restricted Combinations

Co-administration with other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including high-dose salicylates such as Aspirin, is formally contraindicated in regulatory documents due to an established, significantly increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding and ulceration. Furthermore, use is contraindicated for treating perioperative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.

Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

  • Anticoagulants and Anti-Platelet Agents: Combining Bi-Profenid with oral anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) or anti-platelet agents (e.g., Ticlopidine) increases the risk of hemorrhage through an additive pharmacodynamic effect on platelet function and the gastrointestinal lining.
  • Lithium and Methotrexate: Co-administration results in reduced renal clearance of both Lithium and Methotrexate, which is officially documented to raise their respective plasma levels, increasing the potential for toxicity.
  • Antihypertensives and Diuretics: Bi-Profenid may diminish the expected antihypertensive effect of ACE Inhibitors and Diuretics by affecting renal hemodynamics. This combination also increases the risk of acute renal failure, particularly in patients with volume depletion.
  • Food and Alcohol: While co-administration with food slows the rate of absorption (downarrow Cmax), the total systemic drug exposure (AUC) remains unaltered. Alcohol is noted to increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects, including ulceration and bleeding.

Timing and Population Considerations

The regulatory label for Methotrexate specifies that it should not be administered less than 12 hours before or after a Ketoprofen treatment. Elderly patients are classified as a population with a higher susceptibility to serious adverse effects when co-administered with interacting drugs.

Mechanism of Action

How Bi-Profenid Works

Bi-Profenid's active ingredient, Ketoprofen, modulates physiological responses by targeting specific enzyme systems. Its primary mechanism involves the non-selective, reversible inhibition of Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, including both COX-1 and COX-2. By blocking these enzymes, the drug prevents the conversion of Arachidonic acid into Prostaglandins, limiting the production of these potent chemical mediators.

This biochemical action results in two key physiological modulations. Peripherally, the reduced Prostaglandins decrease the sensitization of nociceptors (peripheral pain receptors), thereby reducing the excitability of nociceptive pathways. Centrally, Ketoprofen's action within the hypothalamus prevents Prostaglandins from mediating the shift in the body's thermoregulatory set-point.

The unique bi-layer tablet formulation contributes to the mechanism's kinetic profile. An immediate-release fraction rapidly achieves concentrations necessary to saturate the COX active sites, followed by a sustained-release fraction that maintains the necessary plasma levels for continued modulation of the enzyme system.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Bi-Profenid

This section outlines the administration instructions for Bi-Profenid (Ketoprofen Modified-Release).


Administration Protocol

The route for this medication is oral administration. Bi-Profenid is supplied as a modified-release bi-layer tablet, a design that delivers the active ingredient, Ketoprofen, in a biphasic manner intended for sustained action. For this reason, the tablets must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, split, or chewed, as doing so would compromise the controlled-release mechanism.

Administration should be performed using a full glass of water, and the tablet may be taken with or after food to help with intake.

Dosing and Frequency

The dosing schedule for the modified-release formulation is typically prescribed as 150 mg or 200 mg taken once daily or 150 mg taken twice daily, based on the specific regimen and clinical context. The total amount of Ketoprofen administered in a single day is generally not to exceed 300 mg. This frequency pattern is designed for the chronic management of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and the modified-release form is not intended for the management of acute pain requiring immediate relief.

Population-Specific Adjustments

Adjustments to the standard regimen are required for certain populations. A reduced initial dosage is necessary when treating older adults (geriatric patients) and small or debilitated individuals. Furthermore, the maximum daily dose is lowered for patients presenting with renal or hepatic impairment to prevent potential accumulation and maintain safe use.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence Overview

Bi-Profenid is a bi-layer tablet formulation of ketoprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This design combines an immediate-release layer and a sustained-release layer, which studies investigate for prolonged effects.

Efficacy in Pain and Inflammation

Clinical trials have explored the use of Bi-Profenid in managing acute episodes of pain associated with chronic conditions, primarily those related to rheumatic and traumatic pathologies. A series of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the difference in patient-reported pain intensity between the active treatment group and placebo or standard-dose ketoprofen formulations.

Research has specifically examined the medication in acute affections of the locomotor apparatus, including acute lower back pain, contusions, and specific rheumatologic conditions. Key studies tracked changes in resting pain intensity, pain during movement, and patient satisfaction over periods typically lasting five to seven days.

Safety and Tolerability Profiles

Observational studies have monitored the tolerability profile of the sustained-release formulation. In some rheumatologic studies, the extended-release tablet formulation was found to have a comparable tolerability profile to the standard-release ketoprofen capsules when tracking the occurrence of adverse events.

All nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs carry potential risks, particularly concerning gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Therefore, research underscores the importance of individualized assessment and continuous monitoring of patient-reported symptoms and biomarkers during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Bi-Profenid (FAQ)


Q: What is the function of the 'Bi' component in Bi-Profenid?

A: The 'Bi' component in the name refers to the medication's unique bi-layer tablet design. Official product information states that this design creates a biphasic, modified-release profile, which is engineered to provide both a rapid, initial dose and a sustained-release portion for prolonged effects.

Q: What is the difference between Bi-Profenid and a regular NSAID?

A: Bi-Profenid is a prescription NSAID containing the active ingredient Ketoprofen. The key difference is its formulation as a bi-layer tablet with a modified-release mechanism. This design ensures that the drug is released in two stages—one for quick action and one for an extended effect—to help provide more consistent symptom management than standard, immediate-release NSAID tablets.

Q: How quickly does Bi-Profenid start working?

A: The formulation is designed for rapid onset due to its immediate-release component. Clinical data indicates that the onset of action may be observed within approximately one hour.

Q: What is the typical duration of Bi-Profenid's effects?

A: According to official documents, the modified-release formulation is intended for sustained action. This design allows the drug to typically be prescribed for use once daily for consistent symptom management, which is consistent with a sustained effect for symptom management.

Q: Is Bi-Profenid considered a strong pain reliever?

A: Official regulatory indications establish the medication's use for managing pain associated with chronic joint conditions, as well as the acute episodes of moderate to severe pain that can occur with rheumatic and traumatic pathologies. Clinical research has examined its efficacy in comparison to other commonly used NSAIDs.

Q: Is it safe to use Bi-Profenid if I have a history of stomach ulcers?

A: Official regulatory warnings stress the significant risk of serious gastrointestinal events, including ulceration and bleeding, with NSAID use. While an active ulcer or recurrent GI bleeding history is formally contraindicated, official product information stresses that a history of ulcers is a factor requiring careful consideration by a healthcare provider.

Q: Does Bi-Profenid interact with common over-the-counter cold medicines?

A: Regulatory documents caution against combining this medication with other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including those often present in non-prescription cold and flu preparations. This combination is linked to an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that interact with Bi-Profenid?

A: Official patient information states that taking the medication with food can slow the rate of absorption, but it is described as not significantly changing the overall amount of medicine absorbed. The consumption of alcohol is specifically noted to increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects, including ulceration.

Q: Is Bi-Profenid known to cause fatigue or drowsiness?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list central nervous system (CNS) effects as potential adverse reactions. Specifically, side effects such as drowsiness, somnolence (sleepiness), and excessive tiredness have been reported.

Q: What are the restrictions for driving or operating machinery while using Bi-Profenid?

A: Because side effects like dizziness, somnolence (drowsiness), and blurred vision are documented, patients are advised to be aware of these potential effects before driving or operating machinery.

Q: Can Bi-Profenid affect my sleep patterns?

A: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which is known as insomnia, is listed as a potential side effect in the official safety information for this medication.

Q: Does Bi-Profenid cause weight gain?

A: Official adverse reaction listings include fluid retention (edema) and unexplained weight gain as potential side effects associated with the use of the medication.

Q: Is it normal to feel dizzy after taking Bi-Profenid?

A: Dizziness is officially listed as one of the commonly reported side effects in the official adverse reaction profile of the medication.

Q: What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Bi-Profenid?

A: Official patient information lists symptoms of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) as important warning signs. These include sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives, rash, or difficulty breathing.

Q: What are the rare but serious side effects associated with Bi-Profenid?

A: Serious side effects, though generally classified as rare, include the potential for cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as heart attack or stroke), serious gastrointestinal events (ulceration and bleeding), and severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis. Regulatory warnings classify these risks based on their potential clinical significance.

Q: What are the symptoms of taking too much Bi-Profenid?

A: Symptoms associated with taking too much of the medication can include a lack of energy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, shallow breathing, seizures, or coma. Official guidance emphasizes that immediate medical attention should be sought for these symptoms.

Q: Can Bi-Profenid worsen asthma or breathing conditions?

A: Yes, official contraindications and warnings state that use is cautioned or prohibited for patients who have experienced asthma attacks, hives, or other allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, as the official label indicates a risk of worsening asthma.

Q: Does Bi-Profenid affect blood sugar levels?

A: According to the official interaction profile, when the drug is taken concurrently with insulin or oral antidiabetic medications, it may enhance the effect of those drugs, potentially leading to lower blood sugar levels. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is documented as necessary.

Q: Is there a risk of dependency or addiction with Bi-Profenid?

A: No. The active ingredient in this medication is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and is not classified as a controlled substance with a risk of dependency or addiction.

Q: Does Bi-Profenid show up on drug tests?

A: Published research has indicated that the active ingredient, Ketoprofen, may cause a false positive result in some initial drug screening tests for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC/cannabis) due to chemical cross-reactivity.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for taking Bi-Profenid?

A: Safety and effectiveness have not been formally established in the pediatric population. Official documents state that use is generally restricted to adult patients (often age 18 and older), with specific dosage reductions required for older adults.

Q: Why would a doctor prescribe Bi-Profenid for a short period only?

A: Regulatory warnings state that the risk of certain serious side effects, particularly those affecting the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems, may increase with a longer duration of use. This approach aligns with the general regulatory principle of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimize risk.

Q: Does Bi-Profenid have any known effects on fertility?

A: The active ingredient belongs to a class of drugs (NSAIDs) that may impair female fertility. Official documents describe this effect as generally reversible upon discontinuation.

Q: Is Bi-Profenid available without a prescription in some countries?

A: While the Bi-Profenid modified-release formulation requires a prescription, other immediate-release formulations or lower strengths of the active ingredient (Ketoprofen) are available over-the-counter in some countries.

Q: Are there different strengths or formulations of Bi-Profenid?

A: The active ingredient is available in different tablet strengths, including 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg extended-release formulations, as detailed in regulatory documents.

Q: What kind of research has been done on the long-term use of Bi-Profenid?

A: Regulatory evidence includes published clinical studies and retrospective analyses that examine the long-term use and tolerance profile of the medication, with some follow-up periods exceeding one year.

Q: What evidence exists regarding Bi-Profenid's effectiveness for inflammatory conditions?

A: Official evidence, including clinical trials and observational studies, has examined the medication’s effectiveness for managing the symptoms of chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA).

Q: Are there studies comparing the effectiveness of Bi-Profenid with other NSAIDs?

A: Yes, the regulatory evidence base includes clinical research and meta-analyses that have compared the efficacy of the active ingredient (Ketoprofen) against other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Q: Do official documents mention any potential for Bi-Profenid to affect mood?

A: While not a primary indication, official data sets from adverse event reporting systems (FAERS) have been analyzed in observational studies. These analyses have suggested potential associations with changes in reports of mood-related symptoms, such as decreased frequency of reported depression and anxiety.

Q: Are there different names for Bi-Profenid in other countries?

A: Yes, the active ingredient, Ketoprofen, is marketed under various trade names globally, such as Orudis and Oruvail, among others, depending on the country and specific formulation.

Q: What kind of follow-up monitoring is sometimes recommended for people using Bi-Profenid long-term?

A: Official regulatory guidance recommends the continuous monitoring of patients on long-term therapy. This often includes regular clinical assessments and laboratory tests to check the function of organ systems, particularly the kidneys and liver, as well as checking certain blood parameters.

Q: Are there specific warning signs I should watch for while taking Bi-Profenid?

A: Official patient information explicitly lists clinically significant warning signs. The information lists symptoms, such as chest pain, sudden weakness, or bloody stools, that may be specific warning signs. If these occur, seeking professional medical attention is advised.

Q: How does Bi-Profenid's mechanism of action relate to reducing inflammation?

A: The drug's action involves blocking the Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for creating prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are potent chemical messengers that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By blocking their formation, the drug helps to reduce these processes.

Q: What is the role of Bi-Profenid in managing fever?

A: In addition to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, the medication is officially documented to possess antipyretic capacity. This means it has an established general role in assisting with the reduction of elevated body temperature, which often accompanies inflammatory conditions.

How should Bi-Profenid be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Bi-Profenid?

Official Storage Requirements

Bi-Profenid (ketoprofen prolonged-release) must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C. The medication must be kept in its original container and remain tightly closed to maintain product integrity.

Condition Requirement
Temperature Keep from freezing or excessive heat.
Protection Store away from moisture and direct light (e.g., avoid bathroom storage).
Child Safety Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Disposal Instructions

To dispose of unused or expired Bi-Profenid, patients must consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider for the proper method. The official guidelines state that the product should not be flushed down a toilet or discarded in household trash, emphasizing the use of authorized drug take-back or collection programs.

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

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