Ketorolac: What It Is and When It’s Used

Ketorolac is a strong painkiller that doctors give for short‑term relief after surgery or injuries. It works by stopping the body from making chemicals that cause pain and swelling. Because it’s potent, you’ll only see it prescribed for a few days, not for long‑term use.

If you’ve never heard of ketorolac, you might know it by its brand names like Toradol. It comes as tablets, an injection, or an eye drop, and each form is meant for a specific situation. The oral tablet is most common for people who can’t take a needle, while the injection is used right after an operation.

How to Take Ketorolac Safely

The key rule with ketorolac is to stick to the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. For adults, the usual oral dose is 10 mg every 4–6 hours, but you shouldn’t exceed 40 mg in a day. The injection dosage varies, but doctors always calculate it based on your weight and the procedure you had.

Never mix ketorolac with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin because that can raise the risk of stomach bleeding. If you have a history of ulcers, kidney problems, or heart disease, tell your doctor before starting. Also, avoid drinking alcohol while you’re on this medication; alcohol can irritate the stomach lining even more.

Take the tablet with food or a full glass of water to lessen stomach upset. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but don’t double up. Keep a short medication list handy so you know exactly what you’re taking and when.

Potential Side Effects and When to Call a Doctor

Most people feel the pain relief quickly, but ketorolac can cause side effects. Common ones include stomach pain, nausea, headache, and dizziness. If you notice any of these and they don’t go away, call your pharmacy or doctor for advice.

More serious signs need immediate attention: black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, sudden swelling in your legs, or shortness of breath. These could mean the drug is affecting your stomach lining or kidneys, which can be dangerous.

Because ketorolac can affect kidney function, stay hydrated and watch for reduced urine output. If you’re on other medicines that affect the blood clotting system, such as warfarin, let your doctor know – the combination can raise bleeding risk.

When you finish the prescribed course, don’t start a new one without checking with a healthcare professional. If pain returns, they might suggest a different, safer option for longer‑term use.

In short, ketorolac is a powerful tool for short‑term pain, but it requires careful handling. Follow the dosing instructions, avoid risky combos, and watch for warning signs. Doing so lets you get the pain relief you need without unnecessary complications.