Product Details: Acular (Ketorolac)

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Allergan

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent used to treat itchy eyes and swelling caused by seasonal allergies. It also may be used to relieve eye swelling following cataract surgery.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and with your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Do not blink and keep your eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. TO PREVENT GERMS from entering your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including your eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Keep the container tightly closed. If you are using other eye medicines wait at least 5 minutes before using applying them to the eye. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C), away from heat and light. If the solution becomes discolored, this medicine should be discarded. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU HAVE HAD A SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION to aspirin or any medicine containing aspirin or to a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (such as ibuprofen or naproxen). A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to this medicine or if a certain medicine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or use this medicine for longer than prescribed. Doing so may increase your risk for side effects, some which may be serious. DO NOT WEAR CONTACT LENSES while using this medicine. IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor. Also, tell your doctor if you have a tendency to bleed easily. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. AVOID using this medicine late in pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Side Effects

Mild burning and stinging may occur when this medicine is first applied. This feeling usually disappears in a few minutes. SIDE EFFECTS, which may occur during treatment, include eye redness, eye irritation, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience continuous pain, burning, stinging, redness, or swelling around the eyes. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience any sign of infection in the eye. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Ketorolac