Ketorolac
Allergic Conjunctivitis , Pain ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Cyclooxygenase Inhibitor and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Ketorolac is used to treat moderate to severe pain, often after surgery or for acute injuries. It helps reduce pain and inflammation, which is the body's response to injury or illness. This medication is not meant for long-term use due to potential side effects.
Ketorolac works by blocking substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which means it reduces swelling and discomfort. Think of it as turning down the "volume" of pain signals in your body.
The usual starting dose of ketorolac for adults is 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 40 mg. It is typically taken by mouth in tablet form, but can also be given as an injection by a healthcare provider.
Common side effects of ketorolac include stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness. These effects vary from person to person. Serious side effects can include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Ketorolac can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, especially with long-term use. It may also cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or perforation, which can be fatal. It should not be used before or after heart surgery.
Indications and Purpose
How does Ketorolac work?
Ketorolac works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain. These chemicals are called prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandins, Ketorolac helps relieve pain and reduce swelling. Think of it like turning down the volume on a loudspeaker; it lowers the intensity of pain signals in your body. This makes Ketorolac effective for short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or for injuries.
Is Ketorolac effective?
Ketorolac is effective for short-term pain relief. It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Clinical studies show Ketorolac provides significant pain relief for conditions like postoperative pain and musculoskeletal injuries. It's typically used for up to 5 days due to the risk of side effects with longer use. Always follow your doctor's instructions for using Ketorolac to ensure it's effective and safe for your specific condition.
What is Ketorolac?
Ketorolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Ketorolac is often used for short-term pain management, such as after surgery or for musculoskeletal injuries. It's not intended for long-term use due to the risk of side effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using Ketorolac to ensure it's safe and effective for your specific condition.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Ketorolac?
Ketorolac is used for short-term treatment of acute pain, typically not exceeding 5 days. It's not intended for long-term use due to the risk of side effects. Always follow your doctor's instructions on how long to take Ketorolac. If you have concerns about the duration of use, talk with your doctor. They can help determine the appropriate length of treatment based on your specific condition and health needs.
How do I dispose of Ketorolac?
To dispose of Ketorolac, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and then throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Ketorolac?
Ketorolac is usually taken as a tablet or injection. For tablets, take them with a full glass of water, with or without food, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once. Avoid alcohol while taking Ketorolac, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for taking Ketorolac.
How long does it take for Ketorolac to start working?
Ketorolac starts working quickly, usually within 30 minutes to an hour after taking it. The full pain-relieving effect can be felt within 1 to 2 hours. Individual factors, such as your overall health and the severity of your pain, can affect how quickly you feel relief. Always take Ketorolac exactly as prescribed for the best results. If you have concerns about how long it takes to work, talk with your doctor.
How should I store Ketorolac?
Store Ketorolac at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect its effectiveness. If your medication came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer it to a container that children can't easily open. Always store Ketorolac out of children's reach to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of any unused or expired medication properly.
What is the usual dose of Ketorolac?
The usual starting dose of Ketorolac for adults is 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg per day. Ketorolac is typically used for short-term pain management, usually not exceeding 5 days. Dose adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with kidney problems. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Ketorolac with other prescription drugs?
Ketorolac can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Major interactions include other NSAIDs, which are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and anticoagulants, which are blood thinners. These combinations can increase the risk of bleeding. Ketorolac can also interact with certain antidepressants, increasing the risk of bleeding. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to prevent interactions and ensure safe treatment.
Can Ketorolac be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Ketorolac is not recommended while breastfeeding. It can pass into breast milk and may affect the nursing infant. There is limited information on its effects on breastfed babies, so it's best to avoid it unless absolutely necessary. If you're taking Ketorolac and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you find a treatment that allows you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Ketorolac be taken safely while pregnant?
Ketorolac is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It can affect the baby's heart and blood flow, leading to complications. There is limited information on its safety during pregnancy, so it's best to avoid it unless absolutely necessary. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about safer pain management options. They can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does Ketorolac have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Ketorolac include stomach pain, nausea, and dizziness. Serious side effects can include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and allergic reactions. These effects are more likely with long-term use or in the elderly. If you experience severe side effects, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Ketorolac.
Does Ketorolac have any safety warnings?
Yes, Ketorolac has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, especially with long-term use. It may also cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or perforation, which can be fatal. These risks are higher in the elderly. Ketorolac should not be used before or after heart surgery. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any unusual symptoms, such as chest pain or stomach discomfort, immediately.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Ketorolac?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Ketorolac. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and ulcers, which are potential side effects of Ketorolac. Drinking alcohol can also worsen dizziness or drowsiness caused by the medication. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and watch for warning signs like stomach pain or bleeding. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Ketorolac to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Ketorolac?
You can exercise while taking Ketorolac, but be mindful of your body's response. Ketorolac can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your ability to exercise safely. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as Ketorolac can increase urination. If you notice any unusual symptoms during exercise, slow down or stop and rest. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while taking Ketorolac.
Is it safe to stop Ketorolac?
Yes, it's generally safe to stop Ketorolac, as it's used for short-term pain relief. However, stopping it suddenly may cause your pain to return. Ketorolac is not associated with withdrawal symptoms. Always follow your doctor's advice on how long to take it. If you have concerns about stopping Ketorolac, talk with your doctor. They can help you manage your pain effectively and suggest alternative treatments if needed.
Is Ketorolac addictive?
Ketorolac is not addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Ketorolac works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation, and it doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Ketorolac doesn't carry this risk.
Is Ketorolac safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of Ketorolac, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney problems. These risks are higher due to age-related changes in the body. Ketorolac should be used with caution in the elderly, and lower doses may be necessary. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safety. Always consult your doctor before using Ketorolac if you are elderly or caring for an elderly person.
What are the most common side effects of Ketorolac?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Ketorolac include stomach pain, nausea, and dizziness. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Ketorolac, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Ketorolac and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Ketorolac?
Ketorolac has several important contraindications. It should not be used by people with a history of peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or severe kidney problems. It's also contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to Ketorolac or other NSAIDs, which are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Ketorolac should not be used before or after heart surgery. Always consult your doctor about these concerns to ensure Ketorolac is safe for you.
