If you’ve ever needed strong pain relief after surgery or an injury, you might have heard of ketorolac. It’s a prescription NSAID that works faster than many over‑the‑counter options. Think of it as the short‑acting cousin of ibuprofen – powerful enough for moderate to severe pain but meant for only a few days.
The drug comes in tablets, injections, or eye drops, and doctors usually prescribe it for up to five days. That limit isn’t random; long‑term use raises the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney trouble, and bleeding. If you’re given a bottle of pills, follow the exact schedule – typically 10 mg every six hours for adults. Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next one, then skip the missed pill and continue.
Never mix ketorolac with other NSAIDs like aspirin or naproxen unless your doctor says it’s okay. The combination can double up on stomach irritation. Also, avoid alcohol while you’re on this medication; even a few drinks can make bleeding more likely.
Most people feel the pain relief within an hour and notice fewer side effects than with stronger opioids. Still, watch for stomach pain, heartburn, or dark stools – signs of gastrointestinal bleeding. If you see any of those, call your doctor right away.
Kidney problems can show up as reduced urine output or swelling in the legs. Those who already have kidney disease should skip ketorolac altogether. Pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, must avoid it because it can affect the baby’s blood flow.
Because ketorolac can thin your blood a bit, tell your doctor if you’re planning any surgery or dental work. You’ll likely need to stop the drug 24‑48 hours before the procedure.
For most patients, the benefits outweigh the risks when used correctly. Store the tablets at room temperature, keep them out of kids’ reach, and discard any unused medication after the prescribed course ends.
If you’re unsure whether ketorolac is right for you, ask your pharmacist about alternatives like acetaminophen or a short‑term opioid. They can help weigh pain control against potential side effects based on your medical history.
Bottom line: ketorolac offers fast, strong pain relief but demands strict adherence to dosing limits and safety checks. Stick to the plan, watch for warning signs, and you’ll get through those tough recovery days with less discomfort.
As a responsible blogger, I want to share some important tips on how to store and dispose of Ketorolac safely. First, always store Ketorolac at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children and pets. Second, don't use expired medication - always check the expiration date before using it. If you need to dispose of expired or unused Ketorolac, don't flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain; instead, follow your local guidelines for proper medication disposal. Lastly, always consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more information on safe medication storage and disposal.
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