Does Ketorolac cause weight gain as a side effect?

Does Ketorolac cause weight gain as a side effect?

Ketorolac may or may not cause weight gain as a side effect. The drug does not boost your appetite or affect your body’s metabolic processes. The majority of the people who have gained weight on Ketorolac gained it as an allergic response to the drug. 

It mostly leads to the discontinuation of treatment with Ketorolac in such patients. This type of weight gain is because of the sudden water retention that can also cause swelling in your face, fingers, and lower extremities. Water weight is relatively easier to lose. 

What does the research say about Ketorolac and Weight Gain?

Research suggests that Ketorolac is not likely to cause significant weight gain as a side effect. However, individual responses to the medication can vary and some people may experience weight gain while taking Ketorolac(1)

As far as your appetite is concerned, Ketorolac actually makes some people lose their appetite. This could be because of NSAID-induced gastrointestinal side effects(2). This can make some people lose weight.

When to call your doctor

Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re observing unusual weight gain or swelling on Ketorolac. If the drug is causing water retention, your doctor may prescribe a low-dose diuretic to drive the excessive fluid out of your body. 

Make sure you don’t start taking any other medication without consulting your provider. Only your doctor can help you determine whether you should continue to use Ketorolac or not. 

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References

1.-

Haynes V, Geller E, Shehab N. Ketorolac use in the United States and its effects on weight gain: Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003-2014. Drug Saf. 2018;41(9):881-887. doi:10.1007/s40264-018-0668-7

2.-

Buckley MM, Brogden RN. Ketorolac. A review of its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential. Drugs. 1990 Jan;39(1):86-109. doi: 10.2165/00003495-199039010-00008. PMID: 2178916. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2178916/