ketorolac ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

ketorolac ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

Acular, Acular LS, Acular PF

What is the most important information I should know about ketorolac ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ketorolac or other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Before using ketorolac ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, or if you have a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder, diabetes, arthritis, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, or if you have had other recent eye surgeries.

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin).

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Using the medication for longer than prescribed may increase the risk of serious side effects on your eyes.

While you are using this medication, do not wear any contact lens that has not been approved by your doctor. Do not use any other eye medications unless your doctor has prescribed them.

What is ketorolac ophthalmic?

Ketorolac is in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ketorolac works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Ketorolac ophthalmic (for the eye) is used to relieve eye itching caused by seasonal allergies.

Ketorolac ophthalmic is also used to reduce swelling, pain, and burning or stinging after cataract surgery or corneal refractive surgery.

Ketorolac ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I use ketorolac ophthalmic?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ketorolac or other NSAIDs.

Before using ketorolac ophthalmic, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, or if you have:

• a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder;

• diabetes;

• arthritis;

• glaucoma;

• dry eye syndrome; or

• if you have had other recent eye surgeries.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether ketorolac ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use ketorolac ophthalmic without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use ketorolac ophthalmic?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ketorolac ophthalmic is usually given 24 hours before cataract surgery, and continued for up to 14 days after surgery. Using the medication for longer than prescribed may increase the risk of serious side effects on your eyes.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the dropper tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.

• Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• Use the eye drops only in the eye you are having surgery on.

• Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Store the drops at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.