Indications
Acular LS is a prescription ophthalmic eye drop used to treat ocular pain and burning/stinging sensations following certain types of eye surgery, such as corneal refractive surgery. It contains the active ingredient ketorolac tromethamine, which is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Acular LS works by blocking the production of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation, thereby reducing pain and discomfort in the eye.
Use and Dosage
To use Acular LS drops, you should follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Typically, the medication is applied to the affected eye(s) four times a day as needed for up to four days after cataract surgery.
Before using the drops, wash your hands thoroughly and then tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above your eye and gently squeeze a drop into the pocket. Close your eye(s) and gently press on the inner corner of your eye(s) with your finger for about one to two minutes. This can help prevent the medication from draining out of your eye too quickly. Finally, release your eyelid(s) and blink a few times to spread the medication across the surface of your eye(s).
If you are using other drops or ointments in your eye(s), wait 5 to 10 minutes between applications to prevent them from interacting. It's important to use Acular LS only as directed by your doctor and do not to exceed the recommended dosage.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Acular LS (Ketorolac):
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Mild eye pain stinging or redness
- Swollen or puffy eyelids
- Watery eyes
Serious Side Effects of Acular LS (Ketorolac):
- A wound that will not heal
- Crusting or drainage from your eyes
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye pain
- Hives
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Redness of the eye
- Severe burning stinging or itching or eyes
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Vision changes
- Watering of the eye
- White patches on your eyes
Forms and Strength
Acular LS (Ketorolac) is available in the following forms and strength:
Acular LS: Eyedrops
- 0.40%
Cautions
- Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ketorolac may slow or delay healing after eye surgery.
- Ocular infection is possible following surgery, so patients should use two drops of Acular LS in the operative eye(s) four times daily beginning 24 hours after surgery and continuing throughout the first 2 weeks of the postoperative period, followed by two drops two times daily for the next week.
- Acular LS should not be used in patients who are allergic to ketorolac or any of its ingredients.
- Acular LS should not be used while wearing contact lenses.
- Acular LS should be used with caution in patients who have a history of bleeding problems, stomach ulcers or other gastrointestinal disorders, kidney disease, or liver disease.
- Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before using Acular LS.
- Acular LS may cause side effects in some patients, such as eye pain, stinging, blurred vision, watery eyes, swollen or puffy eyelids, headache, etc. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, patients should seek medical attention.
- Patients who use more than one topical NSAID concurrently or are using topical corticosteroids may have a higher risk of developing corneal adverse effects.
- Acular LS can cause dryness of the eyes or a sensation of grittiness. Therefore, patients should not use contact lenses until any symptoms have resolved.
- Acular LS should not be used in children under 3 years of age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Acular LS habit-forming?
No, Acular LS is not habit-forming.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Acular LS?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Can I use Acular LS if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety of Acular LS during pregnancy or while breastfeeding has not been established. You should talk to your doctor before using Acular LS if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can Acular LS be used by children?
Acular LS is approved for use in children over the age of 2 for the prevention and reduction of inflammation following cataract surgery.
How should I store Acular LS?
Acular LS should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F). Do not freeze the medication and keep it away from heat and light.
Resources
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/acular-ls
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/acular-ls.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=4fad0873-f79c-4f07-9fac-5060be6b38fe
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-76764/acular-ls-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/acular-ls-drug.htm
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2003/21528_acular_lbl.pdf
REVIEWS