Overview
Dexketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is the S-enantiomer of ketoprofen. It is a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent used for short-term treatment of acute pain conditions. It works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis.
Mechanism of Action
Dexketoprofen is a nonselective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting their production, dexketoprofen provides analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects.
Indications
- Short-term treatment of acute pain
- Postoperative pain
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Dental pain
- Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)
Dosage
Adults: 12.5 mg to 25 mg every 4 to 8 hours as needed for pain. Maximum daily dose: 75 mg. Should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Duration of treatment should be as short as possible, typically not exceeding 7 days.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dexketoprofen, ketoprofen, or other NSAIDs
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Active peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Severe heart failure
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Severe renal impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Concomitant use with other NSAIDs including COX-2 selective inhibitors
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Dyspepsia
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
- Rash
- Edema
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Renal impairment
- Hypertension
Interactions
- Anticoagulants (warfarin): increased risk of bleeding
- Antiplatelet agents (aspirin, clopidogrel): increased risk of bleeding
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs: reduced antihypertensive effect, risk of renal impairment
- Diuretics: reduced diuretic effect, risk of renal impairment
- Lithium: increased lithium levels
- Methotrexate: increased methotrexate toxicity
- Corticosteroids: increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding