Ketorolac

Overview

It's often given as a shot in the ER, then continued briefly as pills.

What it's used for

• Short-term moderate to severe pain, such as after surgery, kidney stones, or injury

How to take it

• Take with food. Never use it for more than 5 days in total (shots plus pills).
• Don't take other NSAIDs while using it.

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

• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness

Warnings

• Boxed warnings: serious stomach bleeding, kidney damage, heart attack, stroke, and bleeding risk.
• Not for people with kidney disease, ulcers, bleeding problems, or before surgery.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Never take with aspirin, other NSAIDs, probenecid, or pentoxifylline.
• Blood thinners raise bleeding risk.

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

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used in late pregnancy or during labor.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

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

• Kidney stones
• Muscle strain or low back pain