KETOROLAC
Background and Date of Approval
Ketorolac injection is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on September 5, 1989, for the treatment of moderate to severe pain in adult patients.
Uses
Ketorolac injection helps to treat acute pain in adult patients. The injection form of this drug allows for rapid onset of action, making it particularly useful in situations where immediate pain relief is needed or when oral intake is not possible, such as postoperative conditions or cases of severe musculoskeletal pain. This drug should not be used for mild or long-term painful conditions. It is intended for short-term use only.
How is it administered?
Ketorolac is injected into a vein (intravenously) or muscle (intramuscularly). Your doctor will decide the frequency and dose of the injection based on your disease condition. Do not self-administer this medicine.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Ketorolac injection are nausea, indigestion, visual disturbance, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness and dizziness. Some serious side effects also include injection site reactions (swelling, pain, redness), and swelling of face, fingers, legs, ankles, or feet.
Warnings
Ketorolac is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. It is highly advised to contact your doctor if you develop any injection site reactions or skin symptoms. Inform your doctor of any heart, thyroid, kidney, or liver disease. Your physician may prescribe you a low dose and perform regular blood tests.
Precautions
It is generally recommended to avoid using Ketorolac injection during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may harm the unborn baby. Taking this drug while breastfeeding is unsafe because it may affect the child. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
Word of Advice
Ketorolac injection is administered by your physician and is not suitable for self-administration at home. This injection provides short-term pain relief. If your pain worsens, contact your doctor for further evaluation. This drug can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and other central nervous system effects. Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require mental alertness.
References
Atnahs Pharma UK Limited, European Medicine Consortium (EMC), [Revised on March 2019], Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.14193.pdf [Accessed on 9th June 2023]. Ketorolac injection - food and drug administration (FDA). [Revised on Nov 2020], Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/spl/data/5c1c882c-6204-47f8-a47f-b9bc82cc5d83/5c1c882c-6204-47f8-a47f-b9bc82cc5d83.xml [Accessed on 9th June 2023]. Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Inflammation, Immunomodulation and Hematopoiesis, 12th edition, 2011, 986. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Autacoids and related drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 202.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ketorolac injection used for?
Ketorolac injection is used to manage moderate to severe pain, such as postoperative pain, renal colic, and pain associated with musculoskeletal injuries.
How is Ketorolac injection administered?
A healthcare professional usually gives Ketorolac injection intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The frequency and dosage of administration will depend on the specific condition and the patient's needs.
How quickly does Ketorolac injection work?
Ketorolac injection usually starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after administration. The duration of its pain-relieving effects can last up to 6 hours.
Can I self-administer a Ketorolac injection?
No, Ketorolac injection should only be administered by a healthcare professional. It is not meant for self-administration at home.
Are there any serious side effects associated with Ketorolac injection?
Yes, Ketorolac injection can potentially cause serious side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, allergic reactions, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
How long can Ketorolac injection be used?
Ketorolac injection is prescribed for short-term use, usually up to five days. Prolonged or overuse of Ketorolac can increase the chance of adverse effects.