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Ketorolac, available only by prescription, is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to alleviate short-term pain. Its usage should not extend beyond 5 days to mitigate the potential for severe adverse effects, including heart attack, stroke, and bleeding.
Ordinarily, your medical practitioner initiates ketorolac treatment in a hospital environment, administering it either through muscular injection or intravenous infusion. Subsequently, they might opt for oral tablets for ongoing treatment. Typically, your healthcare provider will discuss transitioning to a safer alternative pain relief medication at the earliest possible opportunity.
Key Facts
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Ketorolac is prescription-only: It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for short-term pain management.
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Maximum usage is 5 days: Prolonged use increases risks of kidney damage, bleeding, heart attack, or stroke.
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Multiple administration methods: Initially given via injection or IV in a hospital, followed by oral tablets.
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Effective for post-surgical and injury pain: Also used in cases like arthritis, gout, and eye inflammation.
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Half-life is 4.5–6 hours: Mostly cleared from the body within 24–30 hours after the last dose.
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Potentially serious side effects: Includes stomach bleeding, cardiovascular events, and allergic reactions.
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Avoid alcohol and certain drugs: Especially other NSAIDs, blood thinners, and corticosteroids to reduce bleeding risk.
Uses of Ketorolac
Ketorolac is typically used for short-term pain relief, such as pain after surgery or dental procedures. It is not recommended for long-term use, as it can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as stomach bleeding and heart attacks.
Here are some of the uses of Ketorolac:
- Moderate to severe pain after surgery or dental procedures
- Pain caused by injuries, such as sprains and strains
- Pain caused by chronic conditions, such as arthritis and gout
- Eye inflammation (uveitis)
How long does ketorolac stay in your system
Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used to relieve pain and inflammation. The duration that ketorolac stays in your system can vary based on factors such as your metabolism, dosage, frequency of use, and individual differences.
On average, ketorolac's effects typically last for about 4 to 6 hours. However, the drug itself might still be detectable in your system for a longer period due to its elimination half-life. The elimination half-life of ketorolac is approximately 4.5 to 6 hours. This means that it takes roughly this amount of time for the concentration of ketorolac in your bloodstream to decrease by half.
In general, it's estimated that it takes around five times the elimination half-life for a drug to be eliminated from your system. Therefore, ketorolac would likely be mostly cleared from your system within 24 to 30 hours after the last dose. Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate, and individual variations can occur.
If you have concerns about how long ketorolac might be present in your system or its interactions with other medications, it's best to consult a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
Read Also: Acido Nalidixico Fenazopiridina | Its Uses, Side Effect and Interaction
Side effects of Ketorolac
Seek immediate medical assistance if you display signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives, laboured breathing, facial or throat swelling) or a severe skin response (including fever, sore throat, burning sensation in the eyes, skin discomfort, a reddish or purplish rash spreading with blistering, and skin peeling).
If you experience symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, urgently seek medical help: chest pain extending to the shoulder or jaw, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, speech difficulties, and breathlessness.
Cease the use of ketorolac and contact your physician right away if you encounter:
- Breathing difficulties, even during mild activity
- Swelling or rapid gain in weight
- Any degree of skin rash
- indicates stomach bleeding, like dark or tar-like stools, vomiting blood resembling coffee grounds
- Liver issues, such as reduced appetite, upper right abdominal pain, fatigue, itchiness, dark urine, pale stools, or jaundice
- Kidney problems, evident through minimal urination, swelling in the feet or ankles, tiredness, or breathlessness
- Anaemia is due to low red blood cells, leading to pale skin, unusual fatigue, lightheadedness, or cold extremities
Usual side effects might encompass:
- Nausea, stomach discomfort, digestive problems, or diarrhoea
- Dizziness and drowsiness
- Headache
- Swelling
Interactions of Ketorolac
Refrain from consuming alcohol, as it could elevate the likelihood of stomach bleeding.
Prior to using additional medications for pain, fever, inflammation, or cold/flu symptoms, consult a doctor or pharmacist. Such medicines might contain components resembling those found in ketorolac, like aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen.
Ketorolac could potentially interact with specific drugs or supplements. It's important to inform both your doctor and pharmacist about any other substances you are using, whether they are prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
How to take Ketorolac
Adhere to the usage instructions for Ketorolac (Toradol) precisely as indicated on the label or as prescribed by your physician. Do not use amounts larger or smaller than advised, and avoid extending the duration of use beyond the recommended timeframe.
Comply with all the guidelines on your prescription label and review all accompanying medication information. Employ the lowest effective dose for treating your specific condition.
For oral administration, take Ketorolac by mouth.
Ketorolac injections are administered as an intravenous infusion. A healthcare professional will perform this injection for you.
Ketorolac should not be employed for over 5 days, encompassing both injections and tablets. Prolonged use of this medication can result in kidney damage or bleeding.
Store at room temperature, safeguarded from moisture, heat, and light. Seal the bottle securely when not in use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ketorolac (Toradol) serves as a valuable tool in the management of short-term pain in adults, offering relief through its nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory properties.
It's crucial to adhere closely to the prescribed dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. While this medication can provide effective relief, its use should not extend beyond five days to mitigate potential risks such as kidney damage or bleeding.
Remember to communicate any concerns or side effects with your doctor, and always follow the guidance on the prescription label and accompanying medication information. By using Ketorolac responsibly and as directed, you can maximise its benefits while minimising potential risks to your health.
Authoritative References
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Mayo Clinic. Ketorolac (Oral Route) Description and Brand Names. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ketorolac-oral-route/description/drg-20066882.
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MedlinePlus. Ketorolac. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a693001.html.
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Cleveland Clinic. Ketorolac Tablets. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19950-ketorolac-tablets.
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