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Drug interactions

Ibrutinib + Ketorolac

Severity: Major

Ibrutinib and Ketorolac: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Ibrutinib impairs platelet function and is associated with bleeding, and ketorolac adds antiplatelet effects and gastrointestinal mucosal injury. The combination raises the risk of serious hemorrhage.

What this interaction means in plain words

Ibrutinib and Ketorolac can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Ibrutinib belongs to Oncology; Ketorolac belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive platelet dysfunction from BTK inhibition and COX-1 inhibition.

What to do

Avoid ketorolac in patients taking ibrutinib and choose a non-NSAID analgesic such as paracetamol. If unavoidable, monitor closely for bleeding.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Ibrutinib with Ketorolac?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ibrutinib and Ketorolac can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Ibrutinib impairs platelet function and is associated with bleeding, and ketorolac adds antiplatelet effects and gastrointestinal mucosal injury. The combination raises the risk of serious hemorrhage.

How serious is the interaction between Ibrutinib and Ketorolac?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid ketorolac in patients taking ibrutinib and choose a non-NSAID analgesic such as paracetamol. If unavoidable, monitor closely for bleeding.

What other medicines interact with Ketorolac?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Ketorolac with, for example, Aceclofenac, Acemetacin, Acetylsalicylic acid. The full list is on the Ketorolac page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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