Ketodex (Dexketoprofen)

• Dexketoprofen is an NSAID that reduces pain and inflammation by targeting cyclo‑oxygenase pathways.
• Mild to moderate acute pain: provides rapid analgesia for conditions such as dental pain, headache or minor injuries, helping patients achieve functional comfort.
• Post‑operative pain: alleviates surgical pain during the early recovery period, facilitating early mobilization and reducing the need for stronger opioids.
• Musculoskeletal pain: reduces discomfort associated with strains, sprains, back pain or inflammatory joint conditions, improving mobility and daily activity tolerance.

• Dexketoprofen exerts its effect by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclo‑oxygenase‑1 (COX‑1) and cyclo‑oxygenase‑2 (COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduction in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors and lowers inflammatory mediators, resulting in analgesic and anti‑inflammatory activity. Additionally, the drug’s rapid absorption and high plasma concentrations contribute to its quick onset of pain relief, and its enantiomeric purity enhances potency compared with the racemic mixture.

Adverse reactions may range from mild to serious. Patients should be aware of the potential side‑effects associated with dexketoprofen.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort or dyspepsia
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mild skin rash or itching
• Transient elevation of liver enzymes

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding
• Acute renal impairment or failure
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke
• Hepatic failure or severe hepatitis
• Blood dyscrasias such as agranulocytosis

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Assess renal function: adjust use in patients with impaired kidney function.
• Evaluate hepatic status: avoid in severe liver disease.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest necessary period.
• Monitor for gastrointestinal bleeding: especially in patients with a history of ulcers.
• Avoid in individuals with known hypersensitivity to dexketoprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and heat.

Dexketoprofen may interact with other medicines, requiring careful management.

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 bleeding risk.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can raise lithium serum levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: potential for reduced renal function.
• Corticosteroids: increased risk of ulceration.
• Methotrexate: decreased clearance leading to toxicity.
• Antihypertensive agents: possible attenuation of blood‑pressure control.
• Oral hypoglycemics: NSAIDs may affect glucose control.