Acular contains ketorolac tromethamine in a 0.5% ophthalmic solution form and belongs to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) class. It is designed as a sterile isotonic aqueous solution for use in the eyes. The solution includes key inactive ingredients like benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, and octoxynol 40.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Remove your contacts before use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Finish the full course of medication prescribed by your care team even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store this medication at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light.

If single-use vials are supplied in foil pouches, store vials in the pouch with the pouch ends closed. For standard size vials, throw away any unused eye solution one month after opening. For smaller, single-use vials, throw away each vial after use.

Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Bleeding in the front of the eye, including the white, iris or pupil
• Eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge with blurry or decreased vision
• New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge
• Rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
• Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• Round red or dark patches on the skin that may itch, burn, and blister

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Blurry vision
• Burning or stinging of the eyes after use
• Increased tears after use

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Bleeding problems
• Contact lenses
• Diabetes mellitus
• Dry eye syndrome, other eye problems, or recent eye surgery
• An unusual or allergic reaction to ketorolac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medications, foods, dyes or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following:

• Corticosteroid eye drops or ointments, such as dexamethasone
• Medications that prevent or treat blood clots, such as warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your eye symptoms do not get better within 2 to 3 days. Do not use for longer than directed by your care team.

You should not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication, unless your care team tells you to.