What is Toradol?
Toradol (ketorolac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID). It works by lowering hormones in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Toradol is used to treat moderate to severe pain for a short period of time (5 days or less).
Toradol Uses
In adults, Toradol is used to treat moderate to severe pain in the short term. It is typically used before or after medical procedures or surgery. Reducing pain allows you to recover more comfortably and return to your normal daily activities. This NSAID works by inhibiting the production of inflammation-causing natural substances in your body, helping reduce swelling, pain, and fever. It should not be used to treat minor or chronic pain (such as arthritis).
How to Use Toradol
- Carefully read the medication guide and the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking Toradol.
- Take this medication orally with a full glass of water every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by your doctor.
- After taking this medication, do not lie down for 10 minutes.
- To avoid stomach upset, take Toradol with food, milk, or an antacid.
- The dose is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Take this medication at the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to decrease your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects.
- Do not use Toradol for more than 5 days. If you are still in pain after 5 days, consult your doctor about other medications.
- Do not exceed 40 milligrams in a 24-hour period.
- If taking this medication “as needed” (not on a routine basis), take it as soon as the first signs of pain appear. Waiting until the pain becomes unbearable may reduce its effectiveness.
Toradol Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Swelling
- Unusual weight gain
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Less Common Side Effects
- Bruising
- High blood pressure
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Red spots on the skin
- Sores
- Ulcers
- White spots on lips or in mouth
Precautions
- Inform your doctor if you are allergic to aspirin, other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib), or if you have any other allergies.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have: asthma, bleeding or clotting problems, blood disorders, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, nasal polyps, throat or intestinal problems, stroke, or swelling of the ankles.
- NSAIDs, including Toradol, can be linked to kidney problems. Stay hydrated as directed by your doctor and notify them immediately if the amount of urine changes.
- Toradol may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Alcohol can enhance these effects.
- Limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, especially when taking this medication.
- Senior citizens might be more prone to side effects, particularly stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke. Long-term use of high doses may increase this risk.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication. Toradol can harm an unborn baby and cause complications during normal labor. It is not advised to be used during pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If necessary between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, take the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time. Do not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
- This medication enters breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Drug interactions can change the way your medications function or put you at risk for serious side effects.
- Aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (such as captopril and lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers, lithium, methotrexate, probenecid, corticosteroids, and other kidney-related medications may interact with Toradol.
- When used with other drugs that might cause bleeding, Toradol may increase the risk of bleeding. Examples include antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel and blood thinners such as dabigatran, enoxaparin, and warfarin.
Overdose
If you have taken an overdose of this medicine and have serious symptoms such as trouble breathing, seek medical advice immediately. Never take more than what is prescribed by your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already the time for the next dose, skip the forgotten dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose.
Storage
- Keep the medicine away from direct contact with heat, air, and light to avoid damage.
- Store in a safe place, out of children’s reach.
Toradol vs Meloxicam
| Toradol | Meloxicam |
|---|---|
| Toradol is an NSAID used for treating pain for less than six days. | Meloxicam, also known as Mobic, is an NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation in rheumatic diseases and osteoarthritis. |
| It is used to treat moderately severe pain and inflammation following surgery. | It is used to treat arthritis, alleviating swelling, joint pain, and stiffness. |
| Toradol works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. | Meloxicam works by inhibiting the action of natural chemicals known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, aiding in the production of prostaglandins. |
