Ketorolac(Tordol): Benefits, Side Effects and Precautions

Ketorolac belongs to the class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for treating inflammation and pain. The medication is more effective than other NSAIDs, helping to reduce pain from

• Inflammatory causes
• Non-inflammatory causes

Ketorolac was approved by the FDA in November 1989. It works by blocking the enzyme that cells use to make prostaglandins. Ketorolac helps reduce the production of prostaglandins and chemicals that cause;

• Redness
• Fever
• Pain

Uses of Ketorolac Tablet

Keterolac is primarily used in

• Treatment of moderate to severe pain in adults
• Before and after medical procedures or surgery
• Recovery by reducing pain
• Decreases swelling, pain, and fever

Conditions Ketorolac used to Treats

• Acute postoperative pain
• Kidney stone pain
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Migraine or severe headache (short-term use)

Secondary Uses of Ketorolac

• Off-label use in emergency settings for short-term pain relief
• Sometimes used for eye pain or inflammation (in ophthalmic form)

How Does Ketoconazole Work?

Ketoconazole works by interfering with the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes unstable, leading to cell death.

In simple terms: Ketoconazole destroys fungal cells by breaking down their protective barrier.

Dosage

• Tablet: 10 mg
• Injection solution: 15 mg/ML, 30 mg/mL
• Start with injection: tablets used if needed after eating/drinking
• Total therapy duration: ≤5 days
• Intravenous dose for adults: 15-60 mg; max daily dose: 60-120 mg
• Oral dose after IV therapy: 1-2 tablets initially, followed by one tablet every 4-6 hours; max: 40 mg/day
• The smallest dose for kidney failure patients or those over 65
• Not approved for under 17 years of age

Missed Dose

• Missing one or two-dose of Ketorolac won't show any effect on your body. The skipped dose causes no problem. However, with some medications, it won't work if you don't take the dosage on time.
• If you miss a dose, some sudden chemical change may affect your body.
• In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.

Overdose

• Overdose of a drug can be accidental.
• If you have taken more than the prescribed ketorolac tablets, there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions.
• Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.

What Are the Side Effects of Ketorolac Tablet?

Some of the common side effects of Ketorolac are:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Gastric
• Sores in the mouth
• Sweating

Some of the serious side effects of Ketorolac are:

• Fever
• Blisters
• Abnormal weight gain
• Swelling of abdomen and ankles
• Yellow skin
• Tiredness
• Lack of energy
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Flu
• Irregular heartbeat
• Back pain

Contact your doctor for serious symptoms. If you experience any adverse reactions, avoid Ketorolac. Seek immediate medical help for serious side effects.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking the medication, talk to the doctor if you are allergic and have any medical history, such as:

• Asthma
• Bleeding or clotting problems
• Blood disorders
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Nasal polyps
• Stomach or intestinal problems
• Stroke
• Swelling of ankles

Sometimes serious kidney problems can occur due to the use of NSAID medication, including Ketorolac. The problem can be serious if a person is facing dehydration. Drink enough water to prevent dehydration.

Conditions Where Caution Is Needed

• Asthma
• High blood pressure
• Taking blood thinners or other NSAIDs

How to Use Ketorolac?

• Read the prescription label provided by the doctor
• Take with a full glass of water every 4-6 hours
• Avoid lying down immediately after taking
• If stomach upset occurs, take it with food, milk, or antacid
• Dosage based on medical condition and response to treatment
• Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time to reduce side effects
• If pain persists after five days, consult a doctor for alternative medications
• Do not exceed 40 milligrams in 24 hours

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Ketorolac?

• Not recommended for children and adolescents under 17 (tablet form)
• Elderly patients should use with caution due to increased side effect risk

Alcohol or Food Interactions

Alcohol:

• Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of stomach bleeding

Food:

• Can be taken with or without food, but food may help reduce stomach upset

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

• Ketorolac can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with other medications that also cause bleeding.

May Interact With:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, aspirin)
• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• SSRIs (can increase bleeding risk)
• ACE inhibitors or diuretics (kidney risk)

Supplements and Herbal Products:

• Caution with ginkgo biloba, garlic, and vitamin E (may increase bleeding risk)

Always inform your doctor about all drugs and supplements you're using.

Storage

• Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects.
• The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children's reach.
• Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).

Additional advice:

• Before taking Ketorolac, consult your Doctor.
• If you experience any problems or side effects after taking Ketorolac, rush immediately to your nearest hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment.
• Always carry your medications in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies.
• Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor's advice whenever you take Ketorolac.

Ketorolac vs Ibuprofen

References