Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is a combination medicine used during cataract surgery to keep the pupil dilated and reduce pain.
| Drug class | Intracameral Combination |
|---|---|
| Type | Combination |
| Forms | Intracameral (in irrigation) |
| Common strength | 1% + 0.3% |
| Common Indian brands | Omidria (abroad) |
| Prescription status | Prescription (hospital use) |
What Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is used for
Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is a specialized medicine used by ophthalmologists during cataract surgery. Its primary uses are:
- Maintaining pupil dilation (keeping the pupil wide open) throughout the surgery.
- Reducing pain experienced during the cataract surgery procedure.
This combination helps the surgeon have a clear view and work more effectively, while also making the procedure more comfortable for the patient.
How it works
This medicine works through a dual action, delivered directly into the eye during surgery:
- Phenylephrine: This component acts as a dilator. It helps to widen the pupil and keep it dilated throughout the cataract surgery. This is crucial for the surgeon to have a clear and unobstructed view of the lens and other structures inside the eye.
- Ketorolac: This is a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing inflammation and pain. When added to the irrigating fluid used during surgery, it helps to minimize discomfort and pain experienced by the patient during the procedure.
Together, these two medicines are added to the fluid that continuously irrigates the eye during surgery, ensuring their effects are maintained throughout the procedure. This helps in preventing the pupil from constricting (intra-operative miosis) and manages pain effectively.
How it’s used
Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is not a medicine that you would use at home or apply yourself. It is an ‘intracameral’ medicine, which means it is administered directly inside the eye during surgery by the ophthalmologist.
- Administration: It is given continuously during cataract surgery. The medicine is mixed into the irrigating fluid that flows into the eye throughout the procedure.
- Dosing: The strength used is 1% Phenylephrine and 0.3% Ketorolac, and the amount is carefully controlled by the surgeon as part of the surgical process.
You will not need to do anything specific regarding its use as a patient, other than following your doctor’s instructions for preparing for surgery and post-operative care.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Omidria (abroad)
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Good to know
Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Not currently approved or routinely available in India — included for reference; ask your ophthalmologist about approved alternatives. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Precautions & side effects
As Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is administered by specialists during surgery, most precautions are managed by the surgical team. However, it’s important for patients to be aware of the following:
- Reduces Intra-operative Miosis: One of its key benefits is preventing the pupil from constricting (getting smaller) during surgery, which is a common challenge for surgeons.
- Availability in India: This specific combination (Omidria) is not widely available or routinely approved in India. Your ophthalmologist will discuss approved and suitable alternatives if this medicine is not an option for your surgery.
- Prescription Medicine: This is a prescription eye medicine and is only for hospital use, administered by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is never for self-use.
- General Warning: Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Not currently approved or routinely available in India — included for reference; ask your ophthalmologist about approved alternatives. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Understanding Cataracts and Their Treatment
Cataracts are a very common eye condition, especially as people get older. They occur when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, much like looking through a frosted window. This cloudiness can make your vision blurry, colours appear faded, and you might experience glare from lights. Over time, cataracts can make it difficult to read, drive, or perform everyday activities.
The good news is that cataracts are treatable. The most effective and common treatment is cataract surgery. During this procedure, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is a safe and highly successful procedure that can significantly improve your vision and quality of life.
Medicines like Phenylephrine + Ketorolac play a supportive role in making cataract surgery smoother and more comfortable. By keeping the pupil dilated, the surgeon has a better view of the eye’s internal structures, making the procedure more precise. The pain-reducing component helps ensure you experience minimal discomfort during the surgery.
General Eye Care and Hygiene
While Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is administered by your doctor during surgery, maintaining good eye hygiene is always important, especially when preparing for or recovering from any eye procedure. Here are some general tips:
- Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or applying any eye drops (if prescribed for home use).
- Avoid Rubbing Eyes: Try to avoid rubbing your eyes, especially after surgery, as this can cause irritation or interfere with healing.
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: After cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions for post-operative care, including how to use any prescribed eye drops, when to avoid certain activities, and how to protect your eye. It is crucial to follow these instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and the best possible outcome.
- Regular Check-ups: Even after successful cataract surgery, regular eye check-ups are important to monitor your eye health and detect any other potential issues early.
When to Seek Medical Help
It is important to know when to contact your ophthalmologist, especially after an eye procedure or if you experience any new or worsening eye symptoms. While Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is used during surgery, any concerns you have about your eyes before or after surgery should be discussed with your doctor.
Contact your ophthalmologist immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden decrease in vision or vision loss.
- Severe eye pain that doesn’t go away.
- New onset of redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye.
- Seeing flashes of light or new floaters (small spots or lines that drift across your vision).
- Increased sensitivity to light.
- Any other symptoms that worry you or seem unusual.
Remember, your ophthalmologist is your best resource for any questions or concerns about your eye health. Do not hesitate to reach out to them for advice or if you feel something is not right.
Frequently asked questions
What is Phenylephrine + Ketorolac used for?
Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is a medicine used during cataract surgery to help keep the pupil dilated (wide open) and to reduce pain during the procedure. It helps the surgeon have a clear view and makes the surgery more comfortable for the patient.
How does Phenylephrine + Ketorolac work?
This medicine works in two ways: Phenylephrine helps to dilate the pupil and keep it wide during surgery, while Ketorolac, an NSAID, reduces pain and inflammation. Both are added to the irrigating fluid used continuously during the surgery.
What are the common Indian brands for Phenylephrine + Ketorolac?
The brand 'Omidria' is known abroad for this combination. However, this specific combination is not widely available or routinely approved in India. Your ophthalmologist will discuss approved alternatives if needed.
How is Phenylephrine + Ketorolac used?
This medicine is not for self-use. It is an 'intracameral' medicine, meaning it is administered directly inside the eye by an ophthalmologist during cataract surgery. It is given continuously as part of the irrigating fluid throughout the procedure.
Do I need a prescription for Phenylephrine + Ketorolac?
Yes, Phenylephrine + Ketorolac is a prescription medicine. It is only for hospital use and must be administered by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is never for self-use.
What are the key precautions for Phenylephrine + Ketorolac?
The main precaution is that this medicine helps reduce intra-operative miosis (pupil constriction during surgery). It is not widely available in India, so your doctor will discuss alternatives. It is a prescription medicine only for hospital use by specialists, never for self-medication.
References
- Omidria, INN-phenylephrine hydrochloride / ketorolac trometamol
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.