Ketorolac: Pain Relief, Risks, and What You Need to Know

When you need strong pain relief fast, ketorolac, a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used for moderate to severe acute pain. Also known as Toradol, it’s often given in hospitals or clinics after surgery or injury because it works faster and stronger than over-the-counter options. But it’s not a daily painkiller. Unlike ibuprofen or naproxen, ketorolac is meant for short bursts—usually no more than five days—because of how harsh it can be on your stomach, kidneys, and blood.

That’s why NSAIDs, a class of drugs that reduce inflammation and pain by blocking certain enzymes in the body. Also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, they include everything from aspirin to celecoxib, but ketorolac sits at the top of the strength ladder. It’s not for headaches or backaches you get from sitting too long. It’s for sharp, sudden pain—like after an accident, a dental procedure, or a broken bone. But even then, it’s not always the best choice. If you have kidney problems, high blood pressure, or a history of ulcers, your doctor will likely skip ketorolac and pick something safer.

One big reason ketorolac gets used is because it doesn’t cause drowsiness like opioids do. But it does come with its own set of risks: stomach bleeding, kidney damage, and increased chance of heart attack or stroke if used too long. That’s why it’s rarely prescribed for home use without close monitoring. Many people don’t realize that even a few days of ketorolac can cause serious harm if they’re also taking blood thinners, steroids, or certain antidepressants. The ketorolac side effects, common reactions including nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal bleeding that require immediate medical attention are well-documented, yet still overlooked by patients who assume stronger means better.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of articles about ketorolac—it’s a real-world look at how this drug fits into everyday care. You’ll see how it compares to other painkillers, why pharmacists hesitate to fill prescriptions for it, what patients actually experience when they take it, and how insurance plans handle its cost. There’s also coverage on how drug interactions can turn a simple painkiller into a danger, and why some people are more at risk than others. This isn’t theoretical. These are stories from clinics, pharmacies, and real patients who’ve been there.