Dexketoprofen-mediated attenuation of ischemia-reperfusion injury in a rat model of lower limb ischemia

Lower limb ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI-LL) triggers a systemic inflammatory response after restoring blood flow to an ischemic limb. This study evaluated whether dexketoprofen (DEX) given before reperfusion mitigates IRI-LL. Fifty-six male WAG/RijHsd rats were assigned to one control, 3 vehicles, and 3 DEX-treated groups. After 3 h of hindlimb ischemia, reperfusion lasted 3 h, 24 h, or 14 days. Either DEX (1 mg/kg, po) or saline was administered 30 min before reperfusion. Biochemical markers, limb circumference, and motor performance (rotarod and treadmill) were assessed. DEX significantly reduced serum markers of muscle and hepatic injury but had no effect on renal parameters or edema. Functional recovery improved from day 5 onwards in treated animals. Prophylactic DEX administration effectively attenuated biochemical and functional damage secondary to IRI-LL, supporting its potential as a protective therapy against reperfusion injury.