osudhkosh

Generic

Dexketoprofen

4 brands available in the market

At a glance

Dexketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of mild to moderate pain, such as musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, dental pain, and menstrual pain.

Description

Dexketoprofen is the S(+)-enantiomer of Ketoprofen and is responsible for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Ketoprofen. The inactive R(-)-enantiomer does not contribute to the therapeutic properties of Ketoprofen but adds to the metabolic load. Dexketoprofen has been formulated as a trometamol salt, ensuring rapid absorption and onset of action.

Indications
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Menstrual pain
  • Dental pain
  • Pain and inflammation of mild to moderate intensity
Therapeutic class

Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Pharmacological class

NSAID

Pharmacology

Dexketoprofen is the S(+)-enantiomer of Ketoprofen and is responsible for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Ketoprofen. The inactive R(-)-enantiomer does not contribute to the therapeutic properties of Ketoprofen but adds to the metabolic load. Dexketoprofen has been formulated as a trometamol salt, ensuring rapid absorption and onset of action.

Mechanism of action

Dexketoprofen inhibits cyclo-oxygenase enzyme, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, thereby decreasing pain and inflammation.

Dosage

Adult (Rheumatic disorders): 100-200 mg/day in 2-4 divided doses (max 300 mg/day).
Adult (Pain and inflammation): 25-50 mg every 6-8 hours (max 300 mg/day).
Elderly: Initial daily dose should not exceed 50 mg/day.
Hepatic/Renal impairment: Initial 50 mg/day; not to be used in severe impairment.

Administration

Take on an empty stomach (for acute pain, take at least 30 minutes before meals). Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew, crush or break.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of Dexketoprofen, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

Side effects

Common (1-10%): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, heartburn.
Uncommon (0.1-1%): Sleep disorders, nervousness, headache, dizziness, vertigo, palpitations, constipation, dry mouth, flatulence, skin rash, fatigue, hot flushes, shivering.
Rare (0.01-0.1%): Stomach ulceration, gastric hemorrhage or perforation, hypertension, fluid retention, increased liver enzymes.
Very rare (<0.01%): Blurred vision, tinnitus, hypotension, hematological reactions, hepatic/renal damage, photosensitivity, bronchospasm, anaphylaxis.

Precautions & warnings

May affect driving ability (drowsiness, dizziness, visual disturbances). Avoid alcohol (increases risk of stomach problems). Do not take antacids within 2 hours of Dexketoprofen. Caution in heart disease, stroke, peptic ulcer, liver and kidney disease.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity; history of asthma, bronchospasm, acute rhinitis, nasal polyps, urticaria, angioedema with aspirin or other NSAIDs; peptic ulcer; GI bleeding history; bronchial asthma; severe heart failure, moderate-severe renal or hepatic impairment; bleeding or coagulation disorders; pregnancy and lactation.

Drug interactions

Other NSAIDs: Increased risk of GI ulcers and bleeding.
Oral anticoagulants, heparin: Increased risk of bleeding.
Lithium: May reach toxic levels.
Methotrexate (≥15 mg/week): Increased hematological toxicity.
Hydantoins, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, beta-blockers, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, zidovudine, pentoxifylline, probenecid, cardiac glycosides, mifepristone, quinolone antibiotics: May interact.

Food interactions

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Dexketoprofen (increases risk of stomach problems).

Use in pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C. Dexketoprofen may be unsafe during pregnancy. Use during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended.

Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Dexketoprofen is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby. However, use during lactation is not recommended.

Pediatric use

Not recommended for children.

Geriatric use

Elderly patients should start with a daily dose not exceeding 50 mg/day.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal impairment: Use with caution. Mild impairment: initial 50 mg/day; moderate-severe impairment: do not use.
Hepatic impairment: Use with caution. Mild-moderate impairment: initial 50 mg/day; severe impairment: do not use.

Overdose effects

Treatment of overdose is symptomatic; no specific antidote.

Storage conditions

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Dexketoprofen

Common questions

What is Dexketoprofen used for?
It is used for musculoskeletal pain, menstrual pain, dental pain, and other mild to moderate pain.
What is the dosage of Dexketoprofen?
For rheumatic disorders: 100-200 mg/day; For pain: 25-50 mg every 6-8 hours; maximum 300 mg/day.
What are the common side effects?
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, gastric ulceration, bleeding.
What precautions should be taken while taking Dexketoprofen?
Take on an empty stomach, avoid alcohol, caution in heart disease, peptic ulcer, liver and kidney disease.
Is Dexketoprofen safe during pregnancy?
Use during pregnancy is not recommended.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.