What Is Used For

What Is Ketorolac Used For

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Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used for the short-term management of moderate to severe pain, typically for no more than 5 days due to the risk of serious side effects[2][4][6]. It is often used after surgeries or medical procedures where strong pain relief is needed and is considered an alternative to opioid analgesics for such acute situations[3][4][6]. Ketorolac can be administered by injection, orally, by nasal spray, or as ophthalmic (eye) drops, depending on the indication and form[2][3].

Specific medical uses of ketorolac include:

  • Short-term treatment of moderate to severe acute pain (such as post-operative pain or pain after medical procedures)[4][6][8]
  • Treatment of musculoskeletal conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis (in select patients for brief periods)[1]
  • Dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods)[1][2]
  • Headache and migraine pain, in some clinical settings[1]
  • Adjunct to opioid medications to improve pain relief and reduce opioid dosage requirements[2][7]
  • Treatment of idiopathic pericarditis and other causes of inflammation, under medical guidance[2]
  • As eye drops: for ocular pain after eye surgery, relief of ocular itching, and sometimes to manage inflammation or pain from corneal abrasions[2]

Ketorolac is not indicated for:

  • Long-term treatment or management of chronic pain conditions (such as chronic arthritis)
  • Mild pain
  • Pediatric use (outside specific circumstances and under specialist advice)[6][7]

Its use is limited in duration due to risks such as kidney injury, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cardiovascular complications. Ketorolac is generally started as an injection and may be continued orally, but the total duration must not exceed 5 days[2][5][6]. It should always be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider[6].

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