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Ketorolac eye drops

Brand names: Acular, Acuvail

Ketorolac eye drops reduce pain and swelling after eye surgery and itching from eye allergies.

Brand namesAcular, Acuvail
Type of medicineNSAID eye drops
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

They're used for a short time.

What it's used for

  • Pain and inflammation after cataract surgery
  • Itchy allergy eyes

How to take it

  • Wash your hands, tilt your head back, and put a drop in the pocket of the lower lid without touching the tip.
  • Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops. Remove contact lenses unless the label says otherwise.
  • Use as directed, usually for 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Stinging or burning
Call your provider todayEye pain, worsening redness, or vision changes

Warnings

  • Long use can slow healing of the cornea.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Blood thinners may raise bleeding risk in the eye.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.