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NSAID — Non-selective COX Inhibitor (S-enantiomer of Ketoprofen)

Dexketoprofen (Acute Musculoskeletal Pain)

Brand names: Keral, Enantyum

Dexketoprofen is the single active enantiomer of the propionic-acid NSAID ketoprofen, used here for short-term relief of acute musculoskeletal pain such as sprains, low back pain and post-traumatic soft-tissue injury.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It is a non-selective inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin-mediated inflammation and nociceptive sensitisation; the S(+)-enantiomer carries the analgesic activity.

Prescribing in practice

  • Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to limit gastrointestinal, renal and cardiovascular risk, and consider gastroprotection in those at risk of ulceration.
  • Contraindicated in active peptic ulceration, significant renal or hepatic impairment, severe heart failure and the third trimester of pregnancy.
  • Caution with concomitant anticoagulants, antiplatelets, SSRIs, diuretics, ACE inhibitors and other NSAIDs because of additive bleeding and renal risk.

Monitoring

Monitor blood pressure, renal function and for gastrointestinal symptoms in those on prolonged courses or with risk factors.

Counselling the patient

  • Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset.
  • Report black stools, vomiting blood, indigestion or unexplained swelling.
  • This is intended for short-term use only, not regular long-term pain control.

Evidence & guidelines

MHRA and NICE advice on NSAIDs emphasises using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration owing to dose-related gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risk.

Reference: NICE NG124; SPC Keral; RCT Dexketoprofen vs Morphine (acute musculoskeletal pain); Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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