Leviadex (Dexketoprofen)

Leviadex (dexketoprofen) acts on inflammatory pathways to relieve pain in several clinical settings.

• Mild to moderate acute pain: provides rapid analgesia for short‑term painful episodes.
• Musculoskeletal pain: reduces discomfort associated with strains, sprains and arthritic conditions.
• Post‑operative pain: helps control pain following surgical procedures.
• Dysmenorrhea: alleviates menstrual‑related cramping and pelvic pain.

• Dexketoprofen exerts its effect by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, which blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. The reduction in prostaglandin synthesis diminishes inflammation, lowers peripheral sensitisation of nociceptors, and consequently provides analgesic and antipyretic actions.

Adverse reactions may vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Dyspepsia: discomfort or burning in the upper abdomen.
• Headache: transient cranial pain.
• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness.
• Abdominal pain: cramping or tenderness.
• Diarrhoea: loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding: potentially life‑threatening haemorrhage.
• Renal impairment: reduced kidney function or acute failure.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, angioedema, or skin rash.
• Cardiovascular events: increased risk of myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare but serious skin disorder.

Before prescribing Leviadex, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in severe renal impairment.
• Evaluate gastrointestinal risk: use cautiously in patients with a history of ulcers or bleeding.
• Review cardiovascular history: consider alternatives for patients with established heart disease.
• Use the lowest effective dose: limit duration to the shortest period necessary.
• Avoid concomitant NSAIDs: reduce risk of additive toxicity.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Dexketoprofen may interact with other medicines, requiring attention to avoid adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Corticosteroids: synergistic ulcerogenic effect.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): elevated haemorrhage potential.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs): possible reduction in blood pressure control.
• Diuretics: risk of renal function decline.
• Lithium: potential increase in lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance leading to toxicity.