Why is this medication prescribed?

Acular, or ketorolac ophthalmic, is prescribed primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat eye conditions. It’s commonly used to relieve inflammation and pain associated with eye surgeries (like cataract surgery) or other eye conditions. It works by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain. It can also be used to alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a step-by-step guide for using Acular (ketorolac ophthalmic) eye drops:

• Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands thoroughly before applying the eye drops.
• Prepare the Dropper: Shake the bottle gently if instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.
• Tilt Your Head Back: Look up at the ceiling and use your index finger to pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small pocket.
• Apply the Drops: Hold the dropper above your eye and squeeze out the prescribed number of drops. Avoid touching the dropper to your eye or eyelashes to prevent contamination.
• Close Your Eyes: Gently close your eyes for a minute or two to help the medication spread over the surface of your eye.
• Press the Corner of Your Eye: Lightly press your finger on the corner of your eye near the nose to help prevent the drops from draining into your tear duct and to enhance absorption.
• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: After applying the drops, avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.
• Follow the Schedule: Use the drops exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use more or less of the medication than directed.

If you experience any irritation, changes in vision, or other side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

• Post-Surgical Inflammation: It’s often used to reduce inflammation and pain following eye surgeries such as cataract removal.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Acular can help alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as itching, redness, and swelling of the eyes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow for Acular:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to ketorolac or any other medications, especially NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
• Eye Conditions: If you have a history of eye conditions such as corneal damage or other eye infections, let your provider know. Acular might not be suitable for people with these conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Acular in these situations has not been well established.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying Acular. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any other eye medications or systemic medications you are taking, as there may be interactions.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eye, to prevent contamination.
• Eye Irritation: If you experience severe eye irritation, burning, or redness, contact your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Be cautious if the medication affects your vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and consult them if you have any concerns or experience any adverse effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Acular. You can generally eat and drink normally unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. However, maintaining a healthy diet can support overall eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
• If It’s Almost Time for Your Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Acular (ketorolac ophthalmic) may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include:

• Eye Irritation: This can include burning, stinging, or a dry sensation in the eye.
• Redness: You may notice redness in the white part of your eye or the inside of your eyelids.
• Itching: Some people experience itching or discomfort in the eyes.
• Blurred Vision: Temporary blurred vision can occur.

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Eye Pain: Severe eye pain or discomfort that does not go away.
• Vision Changes: Any significant changes in vision or persistent blurred vision.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Eye Infections: Signs of an eye infection, such as increased redness, discharge, or swelling.

If you experience any of these serious side effects, or if common side effects become severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Always report any unusual or concerning symptoms to ensure appropriate management and care.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Acular:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Acular at room temperature, away from direct light and heat.
  • Keep Lid Closed: Ensure the bottle is tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
  • Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the medication.
• Disposal:
  • Medication Take-Back Program: Dispose of unused or expired Acular through a medication take-back program if available.
  • Disposal in Trash: If no take-back program is available, dispose of Acular in the household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance (e.g., coffee grounds) and placing it in a sealed container to prevent leakage.
  • Do Not Flush: Do not flush Acular down the toilet or pour it down the sink unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Overdose Symptoms: If you accidentally use too much Acular or swallow it, you might experience severe eye irritation or discomfort.
• Contact a Healthcare Provider: Call your healthcare provider or local poison control center immediately for advice on what to do.
• Emergency Services: If severe symptoms occur, such as significant eye pain or vision changes, seek medical attention right away.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Always use Acular as directed by your healthcare provider and follow the prescribed dosage schedule.
• Consult Healthcare Provider: Before starting or stopping Acular, or if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, consult your healthcare provider.
• Regular Check-Ups: Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and any potential side effects.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider of your complete medical history, including any other medications you are taking, to avoid potential interactions.
• Contact Lenses: Avoid using Acular while wearing contact lenses unless directed otherwise by your provider.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the effective and safe use of Acular.