From the Guidelines
Ketorolac (Toradol) is effective for treating acute migraines. It's typically administered as a 30-60 mg intramuscular injection or 10 mg intravenously in emergency settings, or as a 10 mg oral tablet every 4-6 hours (not exceeding 40 mg daily) for outpatient use. Treatment should be limited to a maximum of 5 days due to risk of side effects. Ketorolac works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis through blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes, which reduces inflammation and pain associated with migraines. It's particularly useful for patients who haven't responded to typical migraine medications or who cannot take triptans. However, ketorolac should be used cautiously in people with kidney problems, history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or heart disease. Common side effects include stomach irritation, nausea, and dizziness. It's not recommended for long-term migraine management but can be effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for acute attacks 1.
Some key points to consider when using ketorolac for migraines include:
- The medication should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially for patients with certain medical conditions or taking other medications.
- Patients should be monitored for potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or increased risk of bleeding.
- Ketorolac can be used in combination with other migraine treatments, but this should be done under medical supervision to minimize the risk of adverse interactions.
- The effectiveness of ketorolac for migraines can vary from person to person, and some patients may need to try different treatments or combinations of treatments to find what works best for them.
Overall, ketorolac can be a useful option for treating acute migraines, especially for patients who have not responded to other treatments or who cannot take triptans. However, it's essential to use the medication responsibly and under medical guidance to minimize the risk of side effects and ensure the best possible outcomes.
From the Research
Effectiveness of Tordol for Migraines
- Tordol, also known as ketorolac, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be used to treat migraines 2, 3, 4.
- NSAIDs, including ketorolac, are effective in treating mild to moderate migraines and are often used as first-line treatments 2.
- The effectiveness of ketorolac for migraines is supported by its pharmacological properties as an NSAID, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain 3, 4.
- However, it is essential to note that triptans, such as sumatriptan, are generally more effective for moderate to severe migraines and are often used as first-line treatments for these types of migraines 2, 5, 6.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Ketorolac may be less effective than triptans for some patients, but it can still be a useful treatment option for those who cannot tolerate triptans or have contraindications to their use 3, 4.
- The choice of treatment for migraines depends on various factors, including the severity of the migraine, the patient's medical history, and the presence of any contraindications or side effects 2, 5.
- Ketorolac can be used in combination with other medications, such as antiemetics, to enhance its effectiveness and reduce side effects 2, 3, 4.
Limitations and Future Research
- There is limited research specifically on the use of ketorolac for migraines, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effectiveness and potential side effects 2, 3, 4.
- Further research is also needed to compare the effectiveness of ketorolac with other treatments for migraines, including triptans and other NSAIDs 5, 6.