Ketorolac
Prescription status is set country by country — the label where you live is the one that applies.
Beta: the medication section is still being tested, and its data may contain errors. Do not rely on it for a decision about your own treatment.
Ketorolac is a potent non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that blocks both COX-1 and COX-2, cutting prostaglandin production throughout the body. Its analgesic strength approaches that of weak opioids, which is why it is reserved for short-term treatment of moderate to severe pain rather than everyday aches. It is prescription-only.
A usual adult range, not a national label — the dose and the timing differ by country and by product.
Approved uses differ by country — some of these may be off-label or unapproved where you live.
It is taken with food, and courses are deliberately kept short: the risk of stomach ulceration and bleeding climbs steeply with each additional day of use. It is not combined with anticoagulants such as warfarin, or with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid or diclofenac, since all of these compound bleeding risk. Ketorolac also blocks platelet aggregation and cuts kidney blood flow, so existing kidney disease is a particular caution. Where systemic ketorolac is marketed, the EMA-approved European product information asks for creatinine checks in patients who are dehydrated or whose kidneys are already impaired, and for hemoglobin and platelet counts if bleeding is suspected.
Black stools, blood in vomit or stool, or severe stomach pain mean see a doctor immediately. Easy bruising, nosebleeds or bleeding gums, and any drop in urine output or new swelling, also warrant medical review rather than continuing the course.
Reference information, not medical advice. Discuss any change with your doctor.