Ketorolac

 
What is Ketorolac and why is it prescribed?
Ketorolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve moderately severe, acute pain. It is prescribed for a limited amount of time (no more than 5 days for adults and as a single dose for children), not for long-term therapy. Ketorolac can cause serious side effects, including ulcers and internal bleeding. Never take it for more than 5 days.

How should you take Ketorolac?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Ketorolac. Ketorolac works fastest when taken on an empty stomach, but an antacid can be taken if it causes upset. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Take Ketorolac with a full glass of water. Also, do not lie down for about 20 minutes after taking it. This will help to prevent irritation of your upper digestive tract. If you miss a dose and you take Ketorolac on a regular schedule, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Ketorolac at room temperature, away from light.

Are there any Ketorolac side effects?
Ketorolac side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Ketorolac side effects may include diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, indigestion, nausea, stomach and intestinal pain, and swelling due to fluid retention. Less common Ketorolac side effects may include abdominal fullness, constipation, gas, high blood pressure, inflammation of the mouth, itching, rash, red or purple spots on the skin, sweating, and vomiting. Rare Ketorolac side effects may include abnormal dreams, allergic reactions, anemia, asthma, belching, black stools, blood in the urine, convulsions, difficult or labored breathing, esophagitis, exaggerated feeling of well-being, fainting, fever, fluid in the lungs, flushing, gastritis, hallucinations, hearing problems, hives, increased appetite, kidney failure, kidney inflammation, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, nosebleeds, pallor, peptic ulcer, rapid heartbeat, skin inflammation and flaking, skin peeling, stomach and intestinal bleeding, swelling of the throat or tongue, thirst and dry mouth, tremors, urinary problems, vertigo, vision problems, vomiting blood, weight gain, and yellow skin and eyes.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Ketorolac?
If Ketorolac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ketorolac with ACE inhibitor drugs (such as the blood pressure medications Vasotec and Capoten), Antidepressants (such as Prozac), Antiepileptic drugs (Dilantin, Tegretol), Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Motrin), Blood thinners (such as Coumadin), Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), Major tranquilizers (such as Navane), Methotrexate (Rheumatrex), Probenecid, Tranquilizers (such as Xanax), or Water pills (such as Lasix and Dyazide).

Are there any special warnings about Ketorolac?
Remember that Ketorolac has been known to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem. Ketorolac should be used with caution if you have kidney or liver disease. It may cause liver inflammation or kidney problems in some people. Ketorolac is not recommended for long-term use, since side effects increase over time. Ketorolac should be taken for no more than 5 days. If you are an older adult, use this drug cautiously. Ketorolac can increase water retention. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, use this drug with care. Ketorolac can prolong bleeding time. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, take Ketorolac with caution.
 

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.

 

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