Ketesse (Dexketoprofen)

Dexketoprofen, an NSAID, reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes.

• Acute musculoskeletal pain: provides rapid relief of pain and swelling associated with sprains, strains, and backache.
• Dental pain: alleviates postoperative discomfort and inflammatory pain after dental procedures.
• Post‑operative pain: manages moderate pain following minor surgical interventions.

• Dexketoprofen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduction in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors and decreases inflammatory exudate, resulting in analgesia and anti‑inflammatory activity. By limiting prostaglandin‑mediated vasodilation and capillary permeability, dexketoprofen also contributes to reduced edema and erythema at the site of injury.

Dexketoprofen may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are classified by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: mild nausea, dyspepsia, or abdominal pain.
• Headache: transient headache occurring shortly after dosing.
• Dizziness: light‑headed sensation without loss of balance.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding: severe hemorrhage or perforation of the stomach or intestines.
• Severe hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, angioedema, or bronchospasm.
• Renal impairment: acute kidney injury or worsening of chronic renal disease.

When prescribing dexketoprofen, clinicians should consider several precautionary measures to minimise risk.

• Assess gastrointestinal risk: evaluate history of ulcers, bleeding, or chronic NSAID use.
• Evaluate renal function: monitor creatinine and avoid use in severe renal impairment.
• Monitor cardiovascular status: use caution in patients with hypertension or thrombotic disease.
• Use lowest effective dose: prescribe the minimal dose for the shortest duration needed.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets in the original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Dexketoprofen can interact with other medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: additive gastrointestinal toxicity.
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril): may reduce renal function.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding tendency.
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): possible reduction in renal clearance.