Ketorolac tromethamine
Article Abstract:
Ketorolac tromethamine is the first nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medication (analgesic) available in the US that is not administered through the digestive tract. Intramuscular (IM) ketorolac has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for moderate to severe pain. Ketorolac acts, in part, by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, and is not recommended for use by pregnant women as this prostaglandin inhibition effects uterine contraction and fetal circulation. The drug is considered as effective as a postoperative dose of morphine or meperidine (Demerol), and has longer-lasting analgesic effects. Clinical trials have also found it to be effective in treating pain associated with renal colic and cancer. Ketorolac has also been shown to have fewer adverse effects than morphine or meperidine; the most common adverse effects are drowsiness, indigestion, gastrointestinal pain, nausea, edema, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and sweating. Oral ketorolac can cause peptic ulcers and serious gastrointestinal bleeding, but this has not occurred with IM administration. Ketorolac does not depress respiration as narcotic drugs do, has no significant effect on cardiovascular function, and causes less postoperative constipation and stupor than narcotic drugs. It is believed that long-term analgesic tolerance will not occur with this drug, and it does not have the dependence liability of the narcotic analgesics. It appears that ketorolac is an effective short-term analgesic medication with few adverse effects, but more research is needed to evaluate the possible toxic effects of continued use. Dosages and costs of ketorolac administration are included. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1990
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Bromfenac for analgesia
Article Abstract:
Bromfenac sodium is a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that may be at least as effective as acetaminophen/oxycodone or ibuprofen. Two studies showed bromfenac was as effective as established doses of aspirin and ibuprofen. Fifty milligrams (mg) of the drug was reported to relieve the pain of abdominal surgery in 204 patients as well as acetaminophen 650mg/oxycodone 10 mg, and better than ibuprofen 400 mg. Taking bromfenac with food can severely diminish its activity. Since bromfenac is more expensive than the other NSAIDS, further study is needed to explore patient benefits and cost effectiveness.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1997
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