Ketorolac Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 11, 2024.

Applies to ketorolac ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, ketorolac ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking ketorolac ophthalmic:

More common side effects

• itching, redness, tearing, or other sign of eye irritation not present before use of this medicine or becoming worse during use
• redness of the clear part of the eye
• sensitivity to light
• swelling of the eye
• swelling of the eyelids
• tearing
• throbbing pain

Rare side effects

• blurred vision or other change in vision
• eye irritation or redness

Incidence not known

• cough
• noisy breathing
• tightness in the chest
• trouble breathing

Other side effects

Some side effects of ketorolac ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• stinging or burning of the eye when medicine is applied

Rare side effects

• dry eyes
• headache

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ketorolac ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most frequently reported side effects were transient stinging and burning on instillation.^[Ref]

Ocular

• Common (1% to 10%): Intraocular pressure increased, conjunctival hyperemia, conjunctival hemorrhage, corneal edema, ocular pain, tearing, vision blurred, corneal infiltrates, ocular edema, iritis, ocular inflammation, ocular irritation, superficial keratitis, superficial ocular infection, conjunctivitis, ocular pruritus, keratic precipitates, retinal hemorrhage, cystoid macular edema, eye trauma, ptosis, blepharitis, photophobia, corneal lesion, glaucoma
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Ulcerative keratitis, eye dryness, epiphora, corneal ulcer
• Postmarketing reports: Corneal erosion, corneal perforation, corneal thinning, corneal melt, epithelial breakdown^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Transient stinging (up to 40%), burning (up to 40%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Local allergic reaction^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Postmarketing reports: Bronchospasm, asthma exacerbated^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypersensitivity reaction^[Ref]

Further information

Ketorolac ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer