Dexketoprofen
Dexketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. It is the active (S)-enantiomer of ketoprofen and is prescribed for the relief of acute mild to moderate pain, including conditions such as dental pain, dysmenorrhea, and musculoskeletal disorders. The medication is available in oral, injectable, and topical formulations depending on the clinical indication.
Dexketoprofen is an NSAID used to treat acute pain and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M01AE17
- RxNorm
- 237162
- Generic
- Dexketoprofen
- Class
- atc-m01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesterdo not use
contraindicated - risk of premature closure of ductus arteriosus and impaired fetal renal function
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
not recommended during breastfeeding - excreted in breast milk
monitor infant for adverse effects
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderly over 65reduce initial dose to 12.5mg
start with lowest effective dose, monitor for GI and renal adverse effects
regular monitoring of renal function and GI symptoms
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children adolescentsnot recommended
not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateuse reduced dose
use with caution, may exacerbate renal impairment
monitor renal function regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid
contraindicated in severe renal impairment
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose and monitor
use with caution, reduce dose to 12.5mg
regular monitoring of liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeavoid
contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug belonging to the propionic acid derivatives group
Mechanism of action
Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis through cyclooxygenase enzyme blockade
Common uses
Treatment of mild to moderate pain including musculoskeletal and menstrual pain
Onset of action
Rapid analgesic onset following oral administration
Dexketoprofen is used for the short-term treatment of acute mild to moderate pain, including postoperative pain, dental pain, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), and musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain and joint disorders. It may also be used for renal colic pain management.
Dexketoprofen works by reversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, it decreases inflammation, pain, and fever at the site of injury or disease.
Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, abdominal pain, and dyspepsia. Like other NSAIDs, dexketoprofen carries risks of gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, renal impairment, and cardiovascular events. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration and is contraindicated in patients with active peptic ulcers, severe renal or hepatic impairment, and in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy