KETOPROFEN GELS: BEWARE OF THE SUN

The French Agency for Safety of Health Products reminder of the dangers of ketoprofen gels when exposed to sunlight. An excessive number of photosensitization has been identified in patients treated with these products, anti-inflammatory drugs used in rheumatology for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

In April 2001, the French Agency for the Safety of Health Products (AFSSAPS) had changed the clinical characteristics of the leaflet and the labeling of all gels containing ketoprofen. A pictogram also urged patients to protect themselves from the sun and ultraviolet.

Despite these measures, a survey conducted in France phamacovigilance between September 1996 and August 2002 revealed still regularly new cases of photosensitivity . While outstanding, these reactions occur most often in the form of eczema extending vesiculobullous in 80% of cases beyond the area of application. Sun exposure is a factor since 75% of cases occur between June and September. After stopping the application of the gel and sun exposure, the evolution is favorable in almost all cases. Among patients with photosensitivity reactions, a history of allergic reaction cross fibrates, tiaprofenic acid, solar products and perfumes were found. A few cases of photosensitivity without further application of the product were also observed.

It is therefore imperative to avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet (tanning beds) during treatment and two weeks off. It is essential to protect the treated areas by wearing clothes and make a careful and prolonged washing hands after applying the gel.