From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Toradol (ketorolac) should be used with caution in patients with kidney stones, as it may worsen kidney function, but according to the most recent and highest quality study, NSAIDs, including ketorolac, can be effective for pain management in patients with kidney stones, with fewer side effects compared to opioids or paracetamol 1. When considering pain management options for patients with kidney stones, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of each medication.
- NSAIDs, such as ketorolac, can reduce blood flow to the kidneys by inhibiting prostaglandins, which may impair kidney function and complicate kidney stone management.
- However, a systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2018 found that NSAIDs were equivalent to opioids or paracetamol in relieving acute renal colic pain, with fewer side effects and less need for rescue analgesia 1.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often considered a safer first-line option for pain management in patients with kidney stones, with doses of 650-1000mg every 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000mg daily.
- Opioid medications like morphine or hydrocodone may be prescribed under medical supervision if stronger pain relief is required.
- Maintaining adequate hydration (drinking 2-3 liters of water daily) is crucial for patients with kidney stones to help flush out the urinary system.
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective pain management plan tailored to the specific situation of each patient with kidney stones.
- The most recent study on medical treatment of renal stones, published in 2021, highlights the importance of dietetic and pharmacologic measures in preventing urinary stone recurrence, with a decrease of up to 60% of recurrent clinical events 2.