From the Research
Ketorolac injection is a recommended option for short-term pain management in dogs, typically administered at 0.3-0.5 mg/kg intravenously or intramuscularly once daily for no more than 3 consecutive days, as it provides effective analgesia with a relatively favorable safety profile, as supported by studies such as 1 and 2.
Key Considerations
- The medication works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes to reduce inflammation and provide analgesia, making it useful for acute post-surgical pain or traumatic injuries.
- However, ketorolac should not be used long-term due to potential side effects including gastrointestinal ulceration, kidney damage, and bleeding disorders.
- It should be avoided in dogs with pre-existing kidney disease, gastrointestinal issues, bleeding disorders, or those taking other NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
- Veterinary supervision is essential when using ketorolac, as it is not FDA-approved for veterinary use and is administered as an extra-label drug.
- Always monitor treated dogs for signs of adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in drinking and urination habits.
Dosage and Administration
- The recommended dosage is 0.3-0.5 mg/kg intravenously or intramuscularly once daily for no more than 3 consecutive days.
- The pharmacokinetic profile of ketorolac in dogs, as described in 1, indicates a large variability in serum concentrations, with an elimination half-life of approximately 10.95 hours.
Alternative Options
- For longer-term pain management, veterinarians typically transition to other approved canine NSAIDs like carprofen, meloxicam, or grapiprant after the short course of ketorolac is complete.
- The choice of alternative NSAIDs should be based on individual patient factors, such as medical history, concurrent medications, and potential side effects, as well as the specific pain management needs of the dog.
Safety and Efficacy
- The safety and efficacy of ketorolac in dogs have been evaluated in several studies, including 1, 3, and 2, which demonstrate its effectiveness in managing postoperative pain and its relatively favorable safety profile.
- However, as with any medication, ketorolac can cause adverse effects, and its use should be carefully monitored and managed to minimize potential risks.