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Ketorolac Eye Solution

What is this medication?

KETOROLAC (kee toe ROLE ak) treats eye pain and inflammation after a procedure. It may also be used to treat allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy eyes. It works by decreasing inflammation. It belongs to a group of medications called NSAIDs.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Acular, Acular LS, Acular PF, Acuvail

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bleeding problems
  • Contact lenses
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Dry eye syndrome, other eye problems, or recent eye surgery
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to ketorolac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Remove contact lenses before use. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Use 1 bottle for each eye after eye surgery in both eyes. Do not use the same bottle for both eyes. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medication more often than directed. For smaller, single-use vials, throw away each vial after use.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Corticosteroid eye drops or ointments like dexamethasone
  • Medications that prevent or treat blood clots like warfarin

Do not use any other eye products without asking your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your eye symptoms do not get better within 2 to 3 days. Do not use for longer than directed by your care team.

You should not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication, unless your care team tells you to.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Bleeding in the front of the eye, including the white, iris or pupil
  • Change in vision
  • New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Blurry vision
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye irritation or itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store this medication at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light.

If single-use vials are supplied in foil pouches, store vials in the pouch with the pouch ends closed. For standard size vials, throw away any unused eye solution one month after opening. For smaller, single-use vials, throw away each vial after use.

Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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