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Topical NSAID (ophthalmic anti-inflammatory)

Ketorolac 0.5% Eye Drops (Acular)

Brand names: Acular

Ketorolac eye drops (e.g. Acular) are a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used ocularly to relieve inflammation and pain after eye surgery and for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Ketorolac inhibits cyclo-oxygenase, reducing prostaglandin synthesis in ocular tissues and thereby decreasing inflammation, pain and miosis associated with ocular surgery and allergy.

Prescribing in practice

  • Topical ocular NSAIDs can impair corneal wound healing and rarely cause corneal melting or ulceration, so use with caution in patients with epithelial defects, ocular surface disease or concurrent topical corticosteroids and avoid prolonged use.
  • Use with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs as cross-reactivity, including bronchospasm, may occur.
  • Transient stinging or burning on instillation is common; separate the timing if used with other eye drops.

Monitoring

Monitor the cornea clinically during treatment for epithelial breakdown or persistent defects, particularly with prolonged use or in compromised ocular surfaces.

Counselling the patient

  • A brief stinging or burning sensation after instillation is common and usually settles quickly.
  • Report any worsening eye pain, redness or visual changes promptly, and remove contact lenses before use unless advised otherwise.

Evidence & guidelines

MHRA and product information highlight the risk of corneal adverse effects with topical ocular NSAIDs, especially in eyes with surface compromise.

Reference: RCOphth Cataract Surgery Guidelines; Acular SPC; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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