ABSTRACT
Dexketoprofen is a propionic acid derivative and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. It is the (S)-enantiomer and active isomer of ketoprofen and works by blocking the action of cyclooxygenase. Dexketoprofen is indicated for short-term treatment of mild to moderate pain, including dysmenorrhea, musculoskeletal pain and toothache. One case series of 6 patients, one of 2 and a few single case reports of photoallergic contact dermatitis from a topical gel containing 1.25% dexketoprofen have been published. All reports came from Spain and all patients had used the same brand of dexketoprofen gel. Cross-reactions were noted to or from ketoprofen in all individuals: dexketoprofen is the (S)-enantiomer of ketoprofen. In a hospital in Spain, in the period 2003-2006, 6 cases of photoallergic contact dermatitis from dexketoprofen 12.5 mg/gr gel have been investigated. The group consisted of 4 men and 2 women, ages ranging from 23 to 72 years.
