From the Guidelines
Toradol injections can cause diarrhea in approximately 1-10% of patients, as indicated by the gastrointestinal upset listed as an adverse reaction in the study 1. When considering the use of Toradol injections, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, including gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea.
- The study 1 provides a comprehensive overview of acute pain management, including the use of NSAIDs like Toradol.
- According to the study 1, Toradol (ketorolac) has a maximal dosage of 120 mg per day and treatment should not exceed five days, which may help minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- The medication's mechanism of action, inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, can affect the protective lining of the digestive tract, leading to gastrointestinal effects like diarrhea.
- More common digestive side effects of Toradol include nausea, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain, as listed in the study 1.
- If persistent or severe diarrhea occurs after receiving a Toradol injection, it's crucial to contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
- Staying hydrated is particularly important if diarrhea occurs while taking this medication, and patients should be aware of the potential for increased risk of side effects with longer duration of use.
From the Research
Toradol Injections and Diarrhea
- Toradol, also known as ketorolac, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with strong analgesic activity 2, 3.
- The tolerability profile of ketorolac parallels that of other NSAIDs, with most clinically important adverse events affecting the gastrointestinal tract and/or renal or haematological function 2.
- Common adverse reactions to NSAIDs, including ketorolac, may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramps, nausea, and diarrhea 4, 5.
- However, the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events, including diarrhea, associated with ketorolac is not well-established in the provided studies.
- It is worth noting that ketorolac has been implicated in allergic or hypersensitivity reactions, and its use should be cautious in patients with a history of gastrointestinal problems or other conditions that may increase the risk of adverse events 2, 5.
Gastrointestinal Effects of NSAIDs
- NSAIDs, including ketorolac, can cause gastrointestinal damage, particularly when used in high doses or for extended periods 5.
- The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding associated with ketorolac is increased in older patients and when doses exceed 90 mg/day 5.
- However, short-term treatments for postoperative pain with NSAIDs, including ketorolac, are not generally associated with significant gastric damage 5.
Treatment of Diarrhea
- Loperamide is an effective treatment for patients with painless diarrhea and is considered to be free of abuse potential 4.
- Current pharmacological treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) include loperamide, bile acid sequestrants, antispasmodics, and other medications 6.
- However, the provided studies do not establish a direct link between toradol injections and the treatment of diarrhea.