Toradol is a powerful nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) often used for short-term moderate to severe pain. You’ll see it in emergency rooms and after surgeries because it works fast. But that speed comes with real risks, so it’s usually given for only a few days.
If you’re considering Toradol, the key point to remember: it’s for short-term relief only. It’s not a daily medicine for chronic conditions like arthritis. Doctors prefer it when quick, effective pain control is needed and when opioids or other options aren’t appropriate.
Toradol comes as an injectable (IM or IV) and as oral tablets. Typical approaches you might hear from clinicians: a single IV/IM dose of around 30 mg or an initial dose followed by smaller doses every 6 hours. Oral tablets are usually taken in lower amounts. Exact dosing depends on age, weight, kidney function, and other meds—so always follow your prescriber’s instructions.
Doctors limit total treatment to a few days—often no more than 5 days—to cut the risk of bleeding and kidney damage. Older adults and people with low body weight usually get lower doses.
Toradol raises the chance of stomach bleeding, ulcers, and kidney problems. That risk grows if you’re dehydrated, on blood thinners, or taking other NSAIDs. Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, and headache. Serious signs to watch for are black or bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, sudden shortness of breath, or swelling—seek medical help right away if any of those appear.
Don’t use Toradol if you have an active peptic ulcer, recent major bleeding, advanced kidney disease, or a known allergy to NSAIDs. It’s also unsafe in late pregnancy because it can affect the baby’s heart and circulation. Combine it carefully with other drugs—mixing with anticoagulants, certain antidepressants (SSRIs), or other NSAIDs can increase bleeding risk. Also be cautious with ACE inhibitors and diuretics if you have kidney issues.
Practical tips: tell your provider about all meds and supplements you take, avoid alcohol while using Toradol, and stay hydrated. If you have any sign of internal bleeding or a big drop in urine output, stop the drug and get checked. For ongoing pain, ask about safer long-term options—Toradol is rarely the right choice for chronic pain.
Bottom line: Toradol can control pain fast, but only for short periods and with careful monitoring. Use it under medical advice and report any worrying symptoms right away.
