The mechanism of action is associated with non-selective inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzyme activity (COX) - COX-1 and COX-2, mainly in peripheral tissues, resulting in inhibition of the prostaglandin biosynthesis - modulators of pain sensitivity, thermoregulation and inflammation.

Ketorolac has no known effects on opioid receptors, does not cause respiratory depression, drug dependence, possesses no sedative or anxiolytic properties. Impressively, ketorolac has a similar efficacy to standard doses of morphine and meperidine making it a useful opioid sparing agent.

Following intramuscular (i/m) injection, the analgesic action onsets after 0.5 hours. The peak analgesic effect occurs within 1 to 2 hours

Therapeutic indications

Severe and moderate pain syndrome: trauma, toothache, post-surgery pain, cancer, myalgia, arthralgia, neuralgia, radiculitis, dislocations, sprains, rheumatic diseases.

Ketorolac is indicated for symptomatic therapy, reduces pain and inflammation following the dose, and does not affect the disease progress.