Toradol (Ketorolac) – Quick Guide to Uses, Dosage & Safety

If your doctor prescribed Toradol, you probably wonder what it does and how to use it safely. Toradol is the brand name for ketorolac, a strong non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works fast to ease moderate to severe pain, often after surgery or a serious injury.

What Toradol Is and How It Works

Ketorolac blocks enzymes called COX‑1 and COX‑2, which the body uses to make prostaglandins – chemicals that cause pain, swelling, and fever. By cutting down prostaglandin production, Toradol reduces the feeling of pain and the inflammation that often comes with it. It’s not meant for long‑term use; most guidelines limit treatment to five days or less because the risk of side effects rises with time.

Dosage, Side Effects & Safety Tips

Toradol comes in tablets, injectable form, and a nasal spray. The usual adult dose for tablets is 10 mg every 4‑6 hours, never exceeding 40 mg in a day. For injections, doctors may give a single 30 mg dose or a short series, depending on the situation. Always follow the exact schedule your prescriber gives you – skipping doses or taking extra won’t speed up relief and can hurt your stomach or kidneys.

Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and headache. More serious risks involve stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney problems, especially if you have a history of these issues. Drinking alcohol while on Toradol can increase stomach irritation, so it’s best to avoid it.

Before starting Toradol, tell your doctor if you’ve had any of the following: ulcers, bleeding disorders, kidney disease, heart failure, or if you’re taking blood thinners, other NSAIDs, or certain antidepressants. Pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, should not use Toradol because it can affect the baby’s heart and blood flow.

Here are some practical safety tips:

• Take Toradol with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
• Stay hydrated – adequate water helps protect your kidneys.
• Avoid other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) while on Toradol.
• Watch for signs of bleeding: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or unusual bruising.
• If you notice severe stomach pain, stop the medication and contact a healthcare professional right away.

Most people feel significant pain relief within an hour of taking Toradol. Because it’s so potent, doctors usually reserve it for short‑term periods after surgeries, dental extractions, or trauma. If your pain persists beyond the recommended five days, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor rather than extending Toradol use on your own.

Remember, Toradol is a prescription medication meant to be part of a broader pain‑management plan. Use it exactly as directed, stay alert for side effects, and keep open communication with your healthcare provider. Doing so lets you reap the pain‑relieving benefits while minimizing the risks.