ACUVAIL 0.45% Eye Drops (Solution)

What is ACUVAIL 0.45%

ACUVAIL 0.45% Ophthalmic Solution is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulated for topical ocular use. Its active ingredient, ketorolac tromethamine, is designed to alleviate ocular pain and inflammation. Specifically, ACUVAIL is indicated for:

• Reducing ocular pain and inflammation following cataract surgery.

This medication is supplied in single-use 0.4 mL vials, containing a sterile, preservative-free solution of ketorolac tromethamine at a concentration of 0.45% (4.5 mg/mL) :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

How to use ACUVAIL 0.45%

Proper administration of ACUVAIL ensures optimal efficacy and minimizes potential side effects. Follow these guidelines:

• Dosage: Instill one drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily, beginning one day prior to cataract surgery, continued on the day of surgery, and through the first two weeks of the postoperative period :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Administration Tips:
  • Wash hands thoroughly before use.
  • Open a single-use vial just before application and discard after use.
  • Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Hold the dropper above the eye and instill one drop into the pocket.
  • Close your eye gently and press the inner corner for 1-2 minutes to prevent drainage.
• Precautions:
  • Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye, to avoid contamination.
  • Remove contact lenses prior to application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
  • If using other ophthalmic medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applications :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Always adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and duration of use.

Mode of Action ACUVAIL 0.45%

Ketorolac tromethamine, the active component in ACUVAIL, functions by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes are pivotal in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation and pain. By blocking COX activity, ketorolac reduces the production of prostaglandins, thereby alleviating inflammation and pain in ocular tissues :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

This mechanism makes ACUVAIL effective in managing postoperative ocular discomfort and inflammation.

ACUVAIL 0.45% Interactions ACUVAIL 0.45%

While ACUVAIL is applied topically, it can still interact with other medications:

• Topical Corticosteroids: Concurrent use may increase the risk of delayed healing and corneal complications :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Other NSAIDs: Combining with other NSAIDs may enhance the risk of adverse effects :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Anticoagulants: Ketorolac may potentiate the effects of blood thinners, increasing bleeding risk :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Contact Lens Solutions: ACUVAIL should not be administered while wearing contact lenses :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Dosage of ACUVAIL 0.45%

The recommended dosage for ACUVAIL is:

• Adults: One drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, beginning one day prior to cataract surgery, continued on the day of surgery, and through the first two weeks of the postoperative period :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

Adjustments to the dosage or duration should only be made under medical supervision.

Possible side effects of ACUVAIL 0.45%

While ACUVAIL is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Transient burning or stinging upon instillation.
  • Eye redness or irritation.
  • Headache :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Blurred vision.
  • Corneal edema or infiltrates.
  • Increased intraocular pressure :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Rare but Serious Side Effects:
  • Corneal thinning, erosion, or ulceration.
  • Delayed wound healing.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions, including asthma exacerbation :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider immediately.

ACUVAIL 0.45% Contraindications ACUVAIL 0.45%

ACUVAIL should not be used in the following situations:

• Known hypersensitivity to ketorolac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Allergy to any components of the formulation.
• Patients with a history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

Use with caution in individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy, as ketorolac may increase bleeding time :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.

Storage of ACUVAIL 0.45%

Proper storage ensures the medication's effectiveness and safety:

• Store at room temperature between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
• Keep the vials in the pouch, protected from light. Fold pouch ends closed :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Discard any unused solution after opening the single-use vial.

Do not use the solution if it becomes cloudy or changes color.