Acular

The active ingredient in Acular is ketorolac tromethamine. This medication belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In terms of their mechanism of action, they block the production of a hormone known as prostaglandins. These hormones can cause inflammation and pain in the body in response to injury or illness. Because they block the production of these hormones, NSAIDs can have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on the body.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Acular. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Acular:

• Use Acular exactly as prescribed.
• If you are using it for seasonal allergies, you will typically use one drop in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times a day.
• If you are using it to manage inflammation and pain after eye surgery, you will typically apply one drop to the affected eye(s) up to four times a day. You should start using it about 24 hours after surgery and for 2 weeks thereafter.
• If you are using other topical ophthalmic eye products, wait 5 minutes to allow sufficient time for each product to absorb.
• Upon instillation, you may experience blurred vision as it takes time for the drops to be absorbed. However, any blurred vision that is not temporary should be further looked at by your prescriber as it could be a sign of a serious adverse reaction.
• To keep the dropper sterile, do not touch it with your hands or the eye when applying. This will prevent you from spreading bacteria or viruses to the dropper tip and developing any eye or ocular infections.
• Do not use Acular while wearing contact lenses. Acular contains a preservative known as benzalkonium chloride that can damage the lenses.
• If you miss a dose, use Acular as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next use, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Acular seen in clinical trials include:

• Temporary burning or stinging sensation upon instillation
• Eye dryness
• Headache
• Increased eye pressure (intraocular pressure) after cataract surgery

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Acular. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Bronchospasm or worsening asthma
• Any serious vision changes, such as blurry vision or severe eye pain. These could be signs of corneal effects such as epithelial breakdown, corneal ulcers, corneal perforation, or other corneal adverse events.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as eye or facial swelling, hives, rash, or difficulty breathing.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Acular. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Acular, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether any of the following apply:

• Wear contact lenses
• Problems with your cornea or any other eye issues, such as keratitis or dry eye syndrome
• Diabetes
• History of asthma
• Cross-sensitivity to ASA (aspirin), phenylacetic acid derivatives, or other NSAIDs
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• A history of eye surgeries
• Are using a topical corticosteroid for the eye. Both can delay healing. Caution should be exercised if used together.
• On blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders. There is a risk that Acular could prolong bleeding time in these patients.

Do not use Acular if you have a hypersensitivity or allergy to ketorolac or any of the other inactive ingredients in Acular.

Acular should start to work quickly against the symptoms you are targeting. However, everyone is different, and some may find it takes a couple of hours after using it before they see a benefit.

When Acular is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Acular is available as a single dosage form, which is the 5mg/mL ophthalmic solution.

There is another version of Acular available on the market known as Acular LS. This is considered the low-strength version of the original formulation that may be more appropriate for certain indications or ocular surgeries, such as refractive surgeries.

Acular should be stored at room temperature in an upright position, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Acular is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Allergan, which is owned by AbbVie.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Acular.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Acular.

Clinical studies looking at the safety of this medication in pregnant women are lacking. However, it is recommended to avoid use late in pregnancy as it could possibly cause harm to your unborn child. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Acular is safe during lactation. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.