Emergency treatment of renal colic with intravenous ketoprofen

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Ketoprofen (Profenid) is used as intravenous monotherapy incorporated in 0.9% normal saline solution (100 mg Ketoprofen ampoule + 200 ml normal saline) in the treatment of renal colic. We present our experience in 65 patients complaining of clinically diagnosed renal colic who were treated by intravenous saline-Ketoprofen. Prospective investigations revaled urinary calculi in 51 patients, oxaluria (crystalluria) in 5, acute colitis in 2, severe myositis in 2, negative investigations in 3 and radiculitis in 2 patients. Positive response was observed in 93.8% of patients as far as pain relief is concerned. Pain relief started within 5-7 minutes after beginning the infusion. Duration of analgesic effect ranged between 4 and 12 hours. Repeating the injection was done for maintenance of analgesia. Side effects included drowsiness in 2 patients, palpitation in 1 patient, epigastric pain in 1, muscular cramp in 1 patient. Ketoprofen, an antiprostaglandin, is a powerful anti-inflammatory and potent analgesic. Intravenous saline-Ketoprofen is a good emergency treatment for acute episodes of renal colic.