dexketoprofen

Dexketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and the active R(-)-enantiomer of racemic ketoprofen. It is classified as a propionic acid derivative and is used for the short-term treatment of mild to moderate pain, including musculoskeletal pain, dysmenorrhoea (menstrual pain), toothache, migraine, and knee pain. Dexketoprofen works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins—chemicals that mediate inflammation and pain. By blocking these enzymes, dexketoprofen reduces prostaglandin production at sites of injury or damage, thereby decreasing inflammation and alleviating pain. The drug has both peripheral and central analgesic actions. It has a rapid onset of action (within 30 minutes) due to its chiral switch from ketoprofen for improved therapeutic value. Dexketoprofen is available in oral tablet form as well as injectable formulations in various countries across Europe, Asia, and Latin America but not in the United States.

Brand names

KeralArvelesSkudexa

Other names

R(-)-ketoprofenS-ketoprofen