Toradol (Ketorolac) – What It Is and How to Use It Safely
If you’ve been prescribed a strong painkiller that’s meant for only a few days, chances are you’re looking at Toradol. Its generic name is ketorolac, and doctors use it when they need fast relief from moderate to severe pain after surgery or an injury.
How Toradol Works
Toradol belongs to a group called NSAIDs – non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs. It blocks the chemicals in your body that cause inflammation and pain, so you feel relief quickly. Unlike some opioids, it doesn’t make you sleepy or cause cravings, but it can irritate your stomach if you’re not careful.
Safe Use Tips
The key rule with Toradol is time: never take it longer than five days. Your doctor will tell you the exact dose – usually 10‑30 mg every six to eight hours, either as a tablet or an injection. If you have kidney problems, ulcers, or are on blood thinners, let your doctor know before starting.
Take Toradol with food or milk if you’re using tablets; this helps protect your stomach lining. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol because both can increase the risk of bleeding. If you notice black stools, severe headache, or sudden swelling in your legs, stop the medication and call a health professional right away.
When you finish Toradol, don’t jump straight into another NSAID without checking with a pharmacist. Some people switch to ibuprofen or naproxen for continued pain relief, but only after a short break.
Remember that Toradol is meant for short‑term use only. If your pain lasts longer than the prescribed period, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor – they might suggest physical therapy, milder pain relievers, or other options that are safer for long‑term use.
This tag page also links to articles about buying medications online safely, reviews of popular pharmacies, and guides on related drugs. Use those resources if you need help finding a trusted pharmacy or want to compare Toradol with other painkillers.