Drug Guide
Ketorolac Tromethamine and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Ophthalmic anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictor
Pharmacological: NSAID and alpha-adrenergic agonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Used during ocular surgery (especially cataract surgery) to reduce postoperative pain and intraoperative miosis
Mechanism of Action
Ketorolac inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis, thereby diminishing inflammation and pain. Phenylephrine stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors, causing vasoconstriction and pupil dilation.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Administer as directed by the ophthalmic surgeon, typically as an intraoperative irrigation or drop. Exact dosing varies by procedure.
Pediatric: Use in children only if specifically indicated, with dosing determined by the physician.
Geriatric: Use with caution; adjust dosage based on patient response.
Renal Impairment: Use cautiously; no specific dose adjustment available, monitor renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: Use cautiously; no specific dose adjustment specified.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ocular absorption occurs locally with minimal systemic absorption.
Distribution: Limited systemic distribution via topical application.
Metabolism: Ketorolac metabolized hepatically; Phenylephrine undergoes hepatic metabolism; systemic absorption can occur.
Excretion: Renal excretion of metabolites.
Half Life: Ketorolac: approximately 4-6 hours; Phenylephrine: around 2-3 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs or phenylephrine.
- Active bleeding or known bleeding disorders.
- Patients with severe hypertension or cardiovascular disease.
- Use in patients with ocular infection or injury not related to surgery.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment, bleeding disorders, or hypertension.
- Limit systemic absorption by careful application.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Eye irritation or discomfort (Common)
- Postoperative ocular redness or swelling (Uncommon)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anaphylaxis or allergic reactions (Rare)
- Increased intraocular pressure (Rare)
- Systemic cardiovascular effects such as hypertension, tachycardia (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other systemic NSAIDs or anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk.
- Systemic sympathomimetics may have additive effects
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for allergic reactions, ocular irritation, and intraocular pressure.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for bleeding
- Ineffective tissue perfusion related to systemic vasoconstriction
Implementation: Administer as per surgical protocol, ensure proper ocular administration technique.
Evaluation: Assess for reduction in postoperative pain, effective miosis, and absence of adverse reactions.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any eye pain, redness, or allergic symptoms.
- Follow postoperative instructions carefully.
- Avoid rubbing eyes or using unapproved eye products.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding (systemic NSAID effects)
Genetic Factors: None specified for this combination.
Lab Test Interference: Possible interference with coagulation tests, monitor as appropriate.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Systemic absorption may cause vasoconstriction, hypertension, or bleeding.
Treatment: Supportive care; manage symptoms; activated charcoal if ingestion occurs oral, though topical use minimizes systemic risk.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from light.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.