Toradol prescription: quick facts on ketorolac, safety, and use

Toradol (ketorolac) is a strong nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) used for short-term relief of moderate to severe pain. Doctors usually give it after surgery or for sudden injuries, not for long-term pain control. It works fast, but it also has real risks — so it’s a prescription drug for a reason.

Who should and shouldn’t take Toradol

Don’t take Toradol if you have active bleeding, recent stomach or intestinal ulcers, severe kidney disease, or a history of allergic reaction to NSAIDs (including aspirin). It’s also not safe in the third trimester of pregnancy — it can affect the baby’s heart and cause bleeding. People on blood thinners, those with uncontrolled high blood pressure, or anyone with a history of stroke or heart disease should avoid it or use it only with close medical supervision.

If you’re older (especially over 65), your doctor may avoid Toradol or lower the dose because older adults are more likely to have kidney problems and bleeding. If you have diabetes, liver problems, or inflammatory bowel disease, mention that to your prescriber — these conditions change the risk profile.

How Toradol is prescribed and used

Toradol comes as an injection (IV or IM) and as an oral tablet. Typical practice: a short course only. Many clinicians limit use to 5 days total (including injections and oral doses). A common oral dose is 10 mg every 4–6 hours, usually not exceeding 40 mg a day. Injectable doses often range from 15–30 mg per dose. Your prescriber will tailor the dose for your age, kidney function, and other medicines you take.

Why so short? Long use raises the chance of serious stomach bleeding, kidney damage, and increased risk of heart problems. If pain persists beyond a few days, your doctor will likely switch you to a safer plan for longer-term control.

Watch for warning signs: black or bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, severe belly pain, or swelling in the legs. Any of these need urgent medical attention and a stop to the drug.

Common interactions: don’t combine Toradol with other NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) or aspirin for long-term use. It raises bleeding risk when taken with blood thinners (warfarin, DOACs), with SSRIs or SNRIs, and may reduce the effectiveness of some blood pressure medicines. Tell your doctor all prescription and over-the-counter meds, plus supplements.

What to ask your prescriber: Do I need blood tests before or during treatment? How long should I take this? Can this interact with my current meds? What are the main signs I should watch for? If you get clear answers, you’ll have a safer experience.

Bottom line: Toradol is useful for short, controlled pain relief but carries real risks. It requires a prescription and medical oversight — don’t use it long-term or mix it with other NSAIDs without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.