Thirty-five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the meta-analyses, almost half of which were unpublished trials (n=6,380 participants). Thirty-two RCTs were judged as good quality, with a Oxford quality score of 3 points or above. Thirty RCTs had an Oxford Pain Validity Scale score of at least 9. Almost all RCTs were of short duration in acute pain conditions or recent onset pain.
Compared with placebo, dexketoprofen was significantly associated with a reduction in pain at doses of:
10/12.5 mg (relative risk 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.2 to 5.6; number-needed-to-treat 3.5, 95% CI: 2.7 to 4.9; five RCTs).
20/25 mg (relative risk 3.9, 95% CI: 2.4 to 6.3; number-needed-to-treat 3.0, 95% CI: 2.4 to 3.9; five RCTs).
50 mg (relative risk 6.7, 95% CI: 1.7 to 26; number-needed-to-treat 2.1, 95% CI: 1.5 to 3.5; one RCT).
There were no statistically significant differences in the efficacy of dexketoprofen and comparator analgesics. Adverse event withdrawal was not different between dexketoprofen and comparator analgesics.
Subgroup analyses assessing the effects of dexketoprofen on the reduction of a range of pain conditions were reported. The results of sensitivity analyses and clinical heterogeneity were not reported in the study.