What is this medication for?
Ketorolac belongs to the class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by reducing a natural chemical produced in response to injury, thus alleviating inflammation, swelling, and pain. Ketorolac should only be used short-term (i.e., maximum of 5 days) for alleviating moderately severe acute pain such as after surgery. Do not use this medication for minor or chronic pain.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Toradol® is no longer being manufactured for sale in the USA.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Ketorolac may be given as tablets or injections in the hospital. The recommended dose of injections will be determined and given by your doctor in the hospital.
Adults 17 to 64: The usual recommended dose is 20 mg once followed by 10 mg (1 tablet) every 4 to 6 hours as required. Do not take more than 40 mg (4 tablets) each day.
People 65 or older, weight < 50 kg (110 lbs), or with impaired kidney function: The usual recommended dose is 10 mg once followed by 10 mg (1 tablet) every 4 to 6 hours as required. Do not take more than 40 mg (4 tablets) each day.
For safety reasons, the total length of treatment with ketorolac (i.e., tables or injections) must not exceed 5 days. Due to its side effects with long term use, people taking this medication should be switched to another pain medication as soon as possible.
Ketorolac should be taken with food and a full glass of water. Antacids may be used to reduce stomach upset.
Ketorolac should be used at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest possible period of time needed to relieve symptoms.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to ketorolac or any ingredients of the medication
- are breast-feeding
- are currently taking other NSAIDs or aspirin
- are going to have surgery or during surgical procedures
- are in labor and giving birth
- are taking pentoxifylline
- are taking probenecid
- currently have or had an active peptic ulcer or stomach bleeding/perforation
- have advanced kidney or liver disease
- have asthma, hives, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, ibuprofen, diclofenac, rofecoxib, meloxicam)
- have cerebral bleeding or are more prone to bleeding
- have recently had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery