Common Use

Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat moderate to severe pain, typically after surgery. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ketorolac may be used alone or combined with other medications. Treatment with this drug is usually limited to short-term use (5 days or less).

Dosage and Direction

Take Ketorolac exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow these guidelines:

• Do not exceed the recommended dosage
• Treatment should not be prolonged
• Ketorolac is not for minor aches or pains
• Initial dose is typically given as an injection (into muscle or vein)
• Subsequent doses are taken orally with a full glass of water
• Total treatment (injection + oral) should not exceed 5 days

Long-term use may cause kidney damage or bleeding. Inform your surgeon if you've recently taken Ketorolac before any procedure.

Precautions

• Prolonged use may increase risk of heart attack or stroke
• Avoid alcohol to prevent stomach bleeding
• Consult your doctor before taking any OTC medications

Inform your doctor if you have:

• Allergies
• History of heart disease, stroke, or blood clots
• High blood pressure
• Liver or kidney disease
• Stomach/intestinal disorders
• Asthma or nasal polyps

Contraindications

Do not use Ketorolac if:

• Before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG)
• Allergic to ketorolac or aspirin
• Severe kidney disease
• Bleeding disorders
• Head injury or brain bleeding
• Stomach ulcers/bleeding history
• Breastfeeding

Seek emergency care for chest pain, weakness, breathing difficulties, speech problems, or vision changes.

Possible Side Effects

Ketorolac may cause serious gastrointestinal issues including:

• Bleeding
• Perforation (holes in stomach/intestines)

These can occur without warning. Contact your doctor immediately for:

• Black, bloody, or tarry stools
• Vomit resembling coffee grounds
• Blood in cough

Drug Interactions

Avoid Ketorolac with these medications:

• Pentoxifylline
• Probenecid
• Other NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac)

Combining these may lead to accidental overdose.

Missed Dose

• Take the missed dose when remembered
• If near next dose time, skip the missed one
• Never double doses

Overdose

Seek emergency help for overdose symptoms:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Drowsiness
• Blood in stool/cough
• Decreased urination
• Shallow breathing
• Fainting

Storage

Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Disclaimer

This information provides general guidelines about Ketorolac. It does not cover all possible uses, precautions, or interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Never self-diagnose or self-medicate based on this information.

We cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this content and disclaim responsibility for any consequences from its use.