Toradol Dosage: What You Need to Know

Toradol (ketorolac) is a strong painkiller that works fast, but you have to use it the right way. Whether you got a prescription after surgery or an emergency department visit, knowing the correct dose can keep you safe and get you relief without nasty side effects.

How to Take Toradol Correctly

For most adults the usual oral dose is 10 mg every six hours. You can’t go over 40 mg in a day, and the medication should only be used for up to five days total. If you’re given an injection, the typical dose is 30 mg IV or IM every six hours, with the same five‑day maximum.

Don’t try to stretch the treatment longer than five days. Toradol is meant for short‑term pain – things like post‑surgical aches or a severe injury. Using it longer can hurt your kidneys or cause stomach bleeding.

If you have a kidney problem, your doctor will likely lower the dose or avoid the drug altogether. In that case you might see an oral dose of 5 mg every six hours and an even stricter five‑day limit.

Important Dosage Limits and Precautions

Here are the key rules to remember:

• Never exceed 30 mg per injection or 40 mg per day orally.
• Stop using Toradol after five days, even if you still feel pain.
• Avoid it if you’re pregnant, especially in the third trimester – it can affect the baby’s heart.
• Don’t mix Toradol with other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) or blood thinners unless your doctor says it’s okay.
• If you experience stomach pain, black stools, or sudden dizziness, call your doctor right away.

Kids under 16 should not take Toradol – it’s just not approved for them. For older patients, the doctor may start at a lower dose to see how the body handles it.

When you pick up the prescription, check the label for the exact strength (usually 10 mg tablets) and read the directions. If you’re unsure about how many pills to take, ask the pharmacist. A quick “How many tablets should I take each time?” can save you from a serious mistake.

Remember, Toradol is powerful but it’s not a long‑term solution. If your pain lasts longer than a week, talk to your clinician about other options like physical therapy, acetaminophen, or a different class of medication.

Bottom line: stick to the prescribed amount, don’t go past five days, and watch for any warning signs. Doing that lets you get the quick relief Toradol offers without putting your health at risk.