Toradol is a brand name for ketorolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) many doctors use for short-term moderate-to-severe pain. It can work almost as quickly and effectively as weak opioids for some types of pain, but it comes with clear limits. The big idea: Toradol is powerful, but you should only use it for a few days and follow dosing rules closely.
Like other NSAIDs, Toradol blocks enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that make inflammatory chemicals. That reduces pain, swelling, and fever. You’ll often see Toradol used after surgery, for kidney stone pain, or for bad musculoskeletal pain when a short, strong pain reliever is needed. Hospitals use IV or IM shots first; pills are an option once oral intake is OK.
Typical adult dosing: a single IV dose is often 30 mg, or 60 mg IM. Oral tablets commonly come as 10 mg; people take 10 mg every 4–6 hours as needed, not exceeding 40 mg per day. Important: total treatment time (IV/IM plus oral) should not go beyond 5 days because the risk of serious side effects rises quickly.
Toradol can upset your stomach, cause bleeding, and harm kidneys. Watch for stomach pain, black stools, vomiting blood, reduced urine, or sudden swelling. It can raise blood pressure and worsen heart failure. Older adults and people with kidney problems are at higher risk. Pregnant people in the third trimester should not use Toradol because of risks to the baby.
Mixing Toradol with other NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) gives no extra benefit and raises risk. Combining it with blood thinners (warfarin, DOACs), SSRIs, or high-dose aspirin increases bleeding chances. ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics can interact to reduce kidney function when used with Toradol.
Simple safety tips: take the lowest effective dose, for the shortest time. Take oral Toradol with food to reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol while using it. If you notice any signs of bleeding, severe belly pain, sudden shortness of breath, or little/no urine, stop taking it and get medical help.
If you have a history of peptic ulcers, recent GI bleeding, severe kidney disease, or are having heart bypass surgery, Toradol is not for you. Also avoid it if you’re allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs.
Alternatives include acetaminophen for milder pain, or ibuprofen/naproxen for longer use at lower doses. For very severe pain, a short opioid may be the safer choice under close supervision. Ask your clinician which option fits your situation.
Toradol can be very effective when used correctly: short course, proper dose, and awareness of interactions and warning signs. If you're unsure, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
A group of former NFL players have filed a lawsuit against the league and its medical staff over the use of Toradol, alleging the drug caused long-term health issues. The players claim that they were not adequately warned about Toradol's risks and that its use was prioritized over their well-being. The lawsuit seeks compensation for medical expenses and injuries.
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