How long can ketorolac be safely administered?

Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used for its potent analgesic properties. The correct duration for safely administering ketorolac is a maximum of 5 days. This limitation is established due to the risk of significant adverse effects associated with prolonged use, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and other potential side effects that can arise from its anti-inflammatory action.

Short-term use of ketorolac is effective for managing moderate to severe pain, especially in a post-operative setting or for conditions such as renal colic. Prolonged use beyond the recommended duration increases the chances of serious complications, making it critical to adhere to the 5-day guideline. This is why options suggesting longer time frames, such as 2 weeks, 1 month, or indefinite use, are not considered safe. As a result, monitoring for potential side effects and adhering to the established duration for administration is paramount in clinical practice.