Pharmacology of Ketorolac (Toradol) ; Mechanism of action, Pharmacokinetics, Uses, Side effects

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Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the short-term management of moderate to severe pain. Here's a detailed overview of its pharmacology:

Overview
Ketorolac is used to treat conditions such as postoperative pain, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual disorders, and headaches.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ketorolac is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally, and it is also available in injectable, nasal spray, and ophthalmic solution forms.

Metabolism: It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism.

Elimination Half-Life: The elimination half-life ranges from 3.5 to 9.2 hours in young adults and 4.7 to 8.6 hours in the elderly.

Excretion: Ketorolac is primarily excreted in the urine (about 91.4%) and to a lesser extent in the feces.

Mechanism of Action
Ketorolac works by reversibly inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. This inhibition leads to a decrease in the formation of prostaglandins, which are substances that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever2.

Uses
Ketorolac is used for:

Postoperative Pain: To manage pain following surgery.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: To reduce pain and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis: To alleviate joint pain.

Ankylosing Spondylitis: To relieve pain and stiffness.

Menstrual Disorders: To manage menstrual pain.

Headaches: For general pain relief.

Side Effects
Common side effects include:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Central Nervous System Effects: Dizziness, headache, and drowsiness.

Cardiovascular Effects: High blood pressure and edema.

Serious side effects can include:

Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Ulceration and perforation.

Cardiovascular Events: Myocardial infarction and stroke.

Hepatotoxicity: Liver damage.

Renal Impairment: Kidney failure.

Conclusion
Ketorolac is a potent NSAID with a rapid onset of action, making it suitable for managing acute pain. However, its use must be carefully monitored due to potential side effects, especially gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks

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