Apo-k

Common Name: ketorolac oral

How does Apo-k work?

Ketorolac belongs to the class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). It is used for the short-term treatment (five to seven days) of moderate to moderately severe acute pain associated with muscle sprains and strains, dental pain, and pain after surgery or giving birth. It works by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for conditions other than the ones listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Apo-k?

The usual adult dose of ketoralac when taken by mouth is 10 mg every four to six hours as required for pain. Doses exceeding 40 mg daily are not recommended. The medication should be used for a maximum of 5 days for treatment of pain after surgery and for a maximum of 7 days when treating muscular aches and pains. The lowest dose required to control the pain should be used. Ketoralac is also available for use in the hospital as an injectable medication. It is injected into the muscle and should not be used for more than two days. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of medication that has been scheduled, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Apo-k come in?

Each round, white, film-coated tablet, with markings "APO" on one side and "KE" over "10" on the other, contains ketorolac 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Apo-k?

This medication should not be taken by anyone who: currently has or has recently had an inflammatory disease of the stomach and intestines such as stomach or intestinal ulcer or ulcerative colitis is currently taking other NSAIDs is or may be allergic to ketoralac or any of the ingredients of the medication has had an allergic reaction to ASA or other anti-inflammatory medications has a history of significant liver disease or kidney disease is scheduled for surgery in the immediate future is in labour and delivery is taking probenecid or oxpentifylline medications

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Apo-k?

Fluid and electrolyte balance: Fluid retention and edema have been reported with the use of this medication. Ketoralac should be used with caution by anyone who: has certain heart conditions (e.g., congestive heart failure) has high blood pressure has kidney disease or reduced kidney function is recovering from a surgical operation under general anesthesia has any other condition that might lead to fluid retention There is a risk of high blood potassium with NSAID treatment. People most at risk are seniors; those having conditions such as diabetes or kidney failure; and those who take beta-adrenergic blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or some diuretics (water pills). Gastrointestinal: Stomach ulcers, perforation, and bleeding from the stomach have been known to occur during therapy with ketoralac. These complications can occur at any time, and are sometimes severe enough to require immediate medical attention. The risk of ulcers and bleeding are increased in people taking higher doses of NSAIDs for longer periods of time. Ketoralac should be taken under close medical supervision by people prone to irritation of the stomach and intestines, particularly those who have had a stomach ulcer, bloody stools, or diverticulosis or other inflammatory disease of the stomach or intestines (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease). In these cases, your doctor must weigh the benefits of treatment against the possible risks. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms or signs suggestive of stomach ulcers or bleeding in the stomach (black, tarry stools). These reactions can occur at any time during treatment without warning. Long-term use: Long-term use of ketorolac (beyond five to seven days) is not recommended as the risk of side effects increases with the length of treatment. Kidney function: Use of ketoralac may lead to a higher risk of reduced kidney function. This is most common for people who already have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure; in people who are taking diuretics (water pills); and seniors. Occupational hazards: Headaches, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness, may occur during treatment with ketoralac. (These headaches usually occur early in the treatment.) Although the severity of these effects rarely requires the therapy to be stopped, ketoralac should be discontinued if the headaches persist despite dose reduction. Avoid operating motor vehicles and doing other potentially hazardous activities until you determine the effect this medication has on you. Pregnancy: This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy as its safety has not been established. Breast-feeding: This medication should not be used by nursing mothers. Children: Ketoralac is not recommended for children and adolescents under the age of 16 years. The safety, effectiveness, and dosages of the medication for this age group have not been established. Seniors: Seniors appear to have a higher risk of side effects. They should use the lowest effective dosage under close medical supervision.