Indications
Dexketoprofen trometamol is a pain reliever used for short-term treatment of mild to moderate pain, such as muscle and joint pain, back pain, period pain (dysmenorrhoea) and toothache. The injection form is used in hospital for moderate to severe acute pain, such as pain after surgery, when tablets are not suitable.
How It Works
Dexketoprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and the active form of Ketoprofen. It blocks the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes that make prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, inflammation and fever. The trometamol salt is absorbed quickly, so pain relief usually starts within about 30 minutes.
Dosage and Administration
For adults, the usual tablet dose is 25 mg every 8 hours, with a maximum of 75 mg a day, for the shortest time needed, usually no more than 3 to 5 days. In older people and those with mild liver or kidney problems, the starting dose should not exceed 50 mg a day. Take it with food if you have stomach upset; taking it on an empty stomach works faster. The injection is given by a doctor or nurse at a dose set by the doctor, as prescribed. Not recommended for children and adolescents.
Interactions
Avoid using it with other NSAIDs, including Aspirin at pain-relief doses. It increases the risk of bleeding with Warfarin, Heparin, Clopidogrel and SSRIs, and the risk of stomach bleeding with corticosteroids. It can reduce the effect of blood pressure medicines and diuretics and raise the risk of kidney problems when combined with ACE inhibitors, ARBs or diuretics. It may raise levels of Lithium and Methotrexate. Tell your doctor about all medicines.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Dexketoprofen, other NSAIDs or Aspirin, including asthma attacks, hives, nasal polyps or swelling triggered by them.
- Active or past recurrent stomach ulcer or bleeding, or bleeding after previous NSAID use.
- Severe heart failure, severe kidney or liver impairment.
- Bleeding disorders or active bleeding.
- Severe dehydration.
- Last 3 months of pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion and diarrhoea. Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, trouble sleeping and rash can occur. NSAIDs can raise blood pressure, cause fluid retention, and slightly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially with high doses or long use.
Get urgent medical help if you have black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain, chest pain, sudden weakness on one side or difficulty speaking, wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a severe skin rash with blisters or peeling, or much less urine than usual.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use in the last 3 months of pregnancy, as it may harm the baby’s heart and kidneys and affect labour. In the first 6 months, use only if a doctor considers it clearly necessary, at the lowest dose for the shortest time. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Take care in older people and in those with a history of stomach problems, asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney or liver problems, or lupus. It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so do not drive if affected. It may make it harder for women to become pregnant while taking it.
Overdose
Overdose may cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, headache and, in severe cases, stomach bleeding, kidney problems and seizures. Seek emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), propionic acid derivative.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Store injections as directed on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.