What is the use of Toradol (Ketorolac)?

From the Guidelines

Toradol (ketorolac) is a powerful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term management of moderate to severe acute pain, and it should only be used for a maximum of 5 days due to increased risk of serious side effects with longer use. The use of Toradol is supported by several studies, including a 2020 study published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine 1, which found that ketorolac was associated with fewer adverse events compared to opioid therapy. The typical oral dose is 10 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 40 mg daily, while injectable forms are typically 30 mg IV/IM. Toradol works by blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes that produce prostaglandins, chemicals involved in inflammation and pain.

Key Considerations

• Toradol should be avoided in patients with kidney problems, history of GI bleeding, heart disease, or those taking blood thinners, as noted in a 2002 study published in the American Family Physician 1.
• Common side effects include stomach upset, dizziness, and headache, while more serious concerns include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Toradol should not be combined with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, and patients should stay well-hydrated while taking it to protect kidney function, as recommended in a 2010 study published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 1.
• A 2020 study published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine 1 found that ketorolac was associated with fewer adverse events compared to opioid therapy, making it a safer alternative for short-term pain management.

Dosage and Administration

• The typical oral dose is 10 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 40 mg daily.
• Injectable forms are typically 30 mg IV/IM.
• Toradol should only be used for a maximum of 5 days due to increased risk of serious side effects with longer use, as noted in a 2002 study published in the American Family Physician 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Ketorolac Tromethamine Tablets USP and other treatment options before deciding to use Ketorolac Tromethamine Tablets USP. Ketorolac Tromethamine Tablets USP are indicated for the short-term (≤ 5 days) management of moderately severe acute pain that requires analgesia at the opioid level, usually in a postoperative setting

The use of Toradol (Ketorolac) is for the short-term management of moderately severe acute pain that requires analgesia at the opioid level, usually in a postoperative setting 2.

• The treatment duration should not exceed 5 days.
• Alternative analgesics should be used as soon as possible.

From the Research

Use of Toradol (Ketorolac)

• Toradol, also known as ketorolac, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with strong analgesic activity 3.
• It is used for the management of moderate to severe pain, including postoperative pain, and has been shown to be effective in various clinical settings 3, 4.
• Ketorolac can be used as an alternative to opioid therapy, and its use has been associated with a reduced need for opioids and a decrease in opioid-induced adverse events 3, 5.
• The drug is available in oral and parenteral forms, including intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) formulations 6, 5.

Clinical Applications

• Ketorolac has been used to treat pain in patients undergoing surgery, including orthopedic, abdominal, and gynecological procedures 3, 4.
• It has also been used to treat pain in patients with renal colic, migraine headache, musculoskeletal pain, and sickle cell crisis 3.
• In children, ketorolac has been used to treat pain after surgery, including myringotomy, hernia repair, and tonsillectomy 3.

Dosage and Administration

• The recommended dosage of ketorolac varies depending on the clinical setting and the patient's condition 7, 5.
• The maximum recommended dose is 150 mg on the first day and 120 mg on subsequent days, up to a maximum of 5 days 5.
• Lower doses are recommended for elderly patients, patients weighing less than 50 kg, and patients with impaired kidney function 5.