From the Research
It is not accurate to say that 5% ketoprofen is stronger than 3% diclofenac based solely on the percentage concentration. The strength of topical NSAIDs depends on multiple factors beyond just concentration, including the specific drug's potency, penetration ability, and individual patient response. Ketoprofen and diclofenac have different molecular structures and mechanisms, with diclofenac generally considered more potent on a milligram-per-milligram basis. When comparing topical preparations, factors such as the vehicle (gel, cream, patch), skin penetration enhancers, and the specific formulation significantly impact effectiveness. For treating localized pain and inflammation, both medications can be effective when applied 3-4 times daily to the affected area. Side effects are typically mild for both and include skin irritation, redness, or itching at the application site. If one preparation doesn't provide adequate relief after 7-10 days of consistent use, consult your healthcare provider about trying the alternative or exploring other pain management options.
Some key points to consider:
- A study published in 2021 1 compared the efficacy and safety of ketoprofen plasters and diclofenac plasters for osteoarthritis-related knee pain and found that ketoprofen plasters can be effectively and safely administered to patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain.
- The same study found that ketoprofen significantly reduced the pain intensity score at rest after 2 and 3 weeks of treatment compared with diclofenac.
- Another study published in 2016 2 found that topical diclofenac and topical ketoprofen were significantly more effective than carrier for reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
- The study also found that the NNT for clinical success with topical ketoprofen was 6.9 (5.4 to 9.3), which is lower than the NNT for topical diclofenac, indicating that ketoprofen may be more effective in some cases.
Overall, while the concentration of the medication may play a role in its effectiveness, it is not the only factor to consider, and individual patient response and specific formulation can have a significant impact on the outcome. Based on the most recent and highest quality study, ketoprofen plasters may be a more effective option for some patients with osteoarthritis-related knee pain 1.