Does Ketorolac Affect Blood Sugar Levels?
No, ketorolac does not directly affect blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with potent analgesic properties that does not have documented effects on glucose metabolism 1.
Evidence Base
The available evidence does not identify ketorolac as a medication that impacts glycemic control:
Comprehensive reviews of drug-induced hyperglycemia do not list ketorolac or NSAIDs (other than specific exceptions) as agents that alter blood glucose levels 2.
Major diabetes care guidelines from the American Diabetes Association specifically identify medications that require glucose monitoring considerations—including glucocorticoids, statins, thiazide diuretics, certain HIV medications, and second-generation antipsychotics—but do not mention ketorolac or standard NSAIDs 3.
Clinical pharmacology literature on ketorolac extensively documents its adverse effect profile (gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, platelet inhibition) but does not include hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia among its known effects 4, 1.
Important Clinical Distinction
Do not confuse ketorolac with medications that DO affect blood sugar:
Glucocorticoids (like prednisone or dexamethasone) cause significant hyperglycemia in 56-86% of patients and require intensive insulin management 3.
Certain antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, clarithromycin, linezolid) can cause hypoglycemia, particularly when combined with sulfonylureas or meglitinides 5.
Practical Management
For patients with diabetes receiving ketorolac:
No special glucose monitoring is required beyond standard diabetes management 4.
Standard precautions for ketorolac use apply: avoid in patients with renal impairment, gastrointestinal bleeding risk, or compromised hemostasis 4.
Limit duration to 5 days or less and use the lowest effective dose to minimize NSAID-related adverse effects 4.