Ketesse (Dexketoprofen)

Dexketoprofen is used to manage pain and inflammation within the musculoskeletal and postoperative domains.

• Post‑operative pain: reduces pain intensity after surgical procedures.
• Musculoskeletal pain: alleviates pain associated with strains, sprains, and back pain.
• Acute inflammatory conditions: diminishes inflammation and discomfort in conditions such as acute gout attacks.

• Dexketoprofen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The resulting reduction in prostaglandin synthesis decreases nociceptor sensitisation and attenuates inflammatory responses, providing analgesic and anti‑inflammatory activity at the site of tissue injury.

Dexketoprofen may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, which are categorised by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Injection site pain: local discomfort at the administration site.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: dyspepsia or mild abdominal pain.
• Transient increase in blood pressure.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
• Anaphylactic or severe allergic reactions.
• Acute renal impairment or failure.
• Hepatic dysfunction or elevated liver enzymes.
• Cardiovascular thrombotic events such as myocardial infarction.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

When prescribing Dexketoprofen, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Renal function: assess baseline renal status and monitor during therapy.
• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid in patients with active ulcer disease or a history of GI bleeding.
• Cardiovascular caution: use cautiously in patients with hypertension or established heart disease.
• Bleeding tendency: monitor coagulation parameters if combined with anticoagulants.
• Pregnancy and lactation: evaluate risk–benefit; use only if clearly needed.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze.

Dexketoprofen can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to the level of risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or COX‑2 inhibitors: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened hemorrhage risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or diuretics: possible reduction in renal function.
• Lithium: NSAIDs may raise lithium serum concentrations.
• Methotrexate: decreased clearance leading to potential toxicity.