Ketorolac tromethamine (
Toradol®) is a medication used for the short-term relief of moderate to severe pain. Short-term is defined as no longer than five days for adults, and children should not receive more than one dose of ketorolac. This prescription medication is most often used to treat pain following a procedure, but may also be used for such things as pain caused by
kidney stones,
back pain, or cancer pain.
Ketorolac is available in the form of tablets or in an injectable version. Ketorolac tablets are available in one strength -- ketorolac 10 mg. The injections are available in several strengths. The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary, based on factors such as your age, weight, other medications you are currently taking, and other medical conditions you may have.
Although most people tolerate this medication well, side effects are possible. Some of the common
side effects of ketorolac tablets include nausea,
headaches, and drowsiness. This medication is not suitable for everyone, so make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you may have or any other medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal supplements) before starting treatment.
(Click Ketorolac for a more in-depth look at how both tablets and injections work, as well as detailed information on the effects, potential side effects, and general precautions with this drug.)
