Toradol dosage: how to use ketorolac safely

Toradol (ketorolac) is a strong NSAID used for short-term moderate to severe pain. It’s fast and effective, but it also carries risks. This guide gives clear, practical dosing ranges and safety tips so you know what to expect. Always follow a prescriber’s instructions and the product label.

Adults — common dosing: For IV or IM use, typical dosing is 15 mg to 30 mg every 6 hours as needed. Many clinicians give a single 30 mg IV bolus or 30 mg IM injection for quick relief. Do not exceed 120 mg total in 24 hours. For oral tablets, the usual dose is 10 mg initially, then 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, with a maximum of 40 mg per day.

How long can you take Toradol?

Use is limited to short courses. Total duration should not exceed 5 days in adults because of increased risk of bleeding, kidney damage, and stomach ulcers. If pain persists beyond a few days, contact your prescriber for a safer long term plan.

Special populations and precautions

Elderly people and anyone with reduced kidney function need lower dosing or should avoid Toradol. A common adjustment is to use 15 mg IV/IM doses or 10 mg oral doses and to avoid repeating doses more often than every 6 hours. Do not use Toradol if you have active bleeding, peptic ulcer disease, advanced kidney disease, or a recent major surgery of the brain, heart, or spinal cord. Women will not use it late in pregnancy — it can harm the fetus.

Do not combine Toradol with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Combining increases bleeding and kidney risk. Also avoid mixing with blood thinners unless your doctor approves close monitoring. Common side effects include stomach pain, heartburn, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. Serious but less common problems are stomach bleeding, kidney failure, and allergic reactions.

For children, pediatric dosing varies by weight. Hospitals commonly use 0.5 mg per kg per dose IV, not to exceed the adult single dose. Pediatric use should always be under hospital care and guided by a pediatrician.

How fast does Toradol work and what to expect: Pain relief starts within 30-60 minutes after IV or IM dose and within an hour for oral tablets. If pain relief is inadequate, do not double doses — contact your provider. Labs: if you’ll take multiple doses your doctor may check kidney tests and blood count to watch for bleeding or renal changes. Consider acetaminophen as a safer alternative for pain control.

Practical tips: take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and report any belly pain or black stools immediately. If you have prescriptions for blood thinners, talk to your prescriber before starting Toradol.

Remember: these numbers are general. Exact dosing varies by product form, country, and clinical situation. Treat this as a practical overview, not a prescription. If unsure, call your healthcare provider or pharmacist before using Toradol.