Toradol (Ketorolac) — Patient Information (Australia)

Toradol is the brand name for ketorolac, a medicine used to treat moderate to severe pain for a short period. It belongs to a group of medicines called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Toradol is often used in hospital and emergency settings and may also be prescribed for certain acute pain situations where strong pain relief is needed.

This page is designed to be patient-friendly and includes practical information about how Toradol works, typical use, timing, food and alcohol interactions, safety considerations, and frequently asked questions for people in Australia.

Quick facts

• Active ingredient: Ketorolac
• Medicine type: NSAID (painkiller/anti-inflammatory)
• Common use: Short-term relief of moderate to severe pain
• Key safety considerations: Can increase risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding and kidney problems, especially with longer use or higher doses
• Typical duration: Usually limited to a few days
• Forms: Often available as tablets and other formulations depending on local supply

What Toradol is used for

Toradol is used to relieve pain that is moderate to severe, typically for short-term management. It may be considered when other pain relief is not sufficient, particularly when a strong NSAID is needed.

Common indications may include:

• Short-term management of acute pain
• Severe pain following certain medical procedures or injuries (as directed by a clinician)
• Other acute pain conditions where an NSAID such as ketorolac is considered appropriate

Important: Toradol is not intended for long-term pain control. If you have persistent pain, speak with a healthcare professional about safer long-term options.

How Toradol works (mechanism of action)

Ketorolac reduces pain by decreasing the body’s production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals involved in:

• Pain signalling
• Inflammation (swelling, redness)
• Fever response

It does this mainly by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2). This leads to less prostaglandin activity, which can reduce pain and inflammation.

Unlike some other pain relievers, ketorolac can also affect protective functions in the stomach and kidneys—this is why certain people need extra caution.

Pharmacokinetics (how the body handles Toradol)

Understanding pharmacokinetics can help explain why timing and dose limits matter.

Absorption

After oral dosing, ketorolac is absorbed into the bloodstream. Peak effects generally occur within a few hours (exact timing can vary by formulation and individual factors).

Distribution

Ketorolac distributes throughout the body, including into tissues where pain occurs.

Metabolism

Most ketorolac is processed (metabolised) by the liver into inactive or less active forms.

Elimination

Ketorolac is eliminated mainly via the kidneys. Because kidney function affects clearance, dose requirements may change for people with kidney impairment.

Why this matters

• If kidney function is reduced, ketorolac can build up and increase side effects.
• Since it is cleared through the kidneys, hydration can be important, though you should follow your clinician’s advice for fluids.

Typical use and timing

Toradol is usually used to control pain for a short period. The dose and duration depend on the severity of pain, age, other health conditions (especially kidney function), and whether other pain medicines are being used.

When to take it

• Take Toradol at the times prescribed.
• For most people, it can be taken with or after food if it upsets the stomach.
• Try to take doses evenly across the day to maintain steady pain relief.

How long it should be used

Ketorolac products are typically limited to short courses because the risk of serious side effects increases with longer use.

Seek medical advice promptly if you still require strong pain relief after the planned short course, as alternatives may be safer.

Food interactions and what to eat

Toradol can be taken with or without food, but food may influence comfort rather than overall efficacy.

• To reduce stomach irritation: taking with food (or after food) may help.
• Avoid taking with other NSAIDs: food does not protect you from the risks associated with combining NSAIDs.
• Alcohol and NSAID combination: see below—this combination increases risk of stomach bleeding.

If you experience heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, or black/tarry stools, stop and seek urgent medical advice.

Alcohol and medicine interactions

Alcohol

It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking Toradol. Alcohol can increase the risk of:

• Stomach irritation and bleeding
• Damage to the digestive tract
• Kidney stress (especially if you become dehydrated)

If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only after discussing with a healthcare professional and avoid heavy drinking.

Common medicine interactions

Toradol can interact with several medicines. Tell a healthcare professional or pharmacist about all medicines you use, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements.

In particular, avoid or get advice before combining ketorolac with:

• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, aspirin for pain) — increases risk of stomach bleeding and kidney problems
• Anticoagulants (blood thinners) — bleeding risk may increase
• Antiplatelet medicines (e.g., clopidogrel) — increased bleeding risk
• Systemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) — can increase gastrointestinal side effects
• SSRIs/SNRIs (some antidepressants) — may increase bleeding risk
• ACE inhibitors/ARBs and diuretics — in some combinations may increase risk of kidney problems
• Lithium — NSAIDs may increase lithium levels
• Methotrexate — NSAIDs may affect methotrexate clearance and toxicity

Over-the-counter pain medicines

Many people accidentally double up on painkillers. In general:

• Do not take additional NSAIDs unless advised.
• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) may be considered in some situations, but follow label directions and professional advice.

If you are unsure about an interaction, ask a pharmacist before combining medicines.

Dosing guidance (general information)

Dose varies by age, kidney function, and the severity of pain. Always follow the dosing instructions provided with your medicine and any clinician guidance.

General principles:

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
• Dose adjustments may be needed for older adults and people with kidney impairment.
• Do not exceed maximum daily limits.

Do not combine ketorolac with other NSAIDs. This increases the risk of serious adverse effects.

Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not take extra to make up for a missed dose.

Stop and get help urgently if you develop signs of severe bleeding (e.g., vomiting blood, black stools) or an allergic reaction.

Safety profile and when to avoid Toradol

Serious risks to know about

As with other NSAIDs, ketorolac can cause serious side effects, particularly:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding (stomach/intestinal bleeding or ulcers)
• Kidney problems (including acute kidney injury)
• Cardiovascular risks (may increase risk in some people, especially with higher doses or longer duration)
• Allergic reactions (including in people who have had asthma triggered by NSAIDs)

Who needs extra caution

Tell a healthcare professional before using Toradol if you have any of the following:

• A history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
• Heart disease, stroke history, or risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• Asthma or past allergic reactions to NSAIDs
• Dehydration (e.g., vomiting, diarrhoea, poor fluid intake)
• Older age or frailty (higher risk of side effects)

Common side effects

• Stomach discomfort, nausea, indigestion
• Dizziness or headache
• Swelling or fluid retention in some people

Seek urgent medical help if

• Black, tarry stools or blood in stools
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe stomach pain
• Unexplained shortness of breath, wheezing, or face swelling
• Little or no urine, severe back pain, or signs of dehydration
• Severe rash or blistering skin reactions

Practical use tips (to reduce risk)

• Follow the schedule carefully: don’t exceed the recommended frequency or duration.
• Avoid other NSAIDs: check labels on cold/flu medicines and pain products.
• Take with food if needed: this may reduce stomach irritation.
• Stay hydrated: especially if you’re active or have had sweating, vomiting, or diarrhoea (follow any personalised fluid advice).
• Use the lowest effective dose: if pain is controlled, do not “top up” unnecessarily.
• Be cautious with new medicines: antibiotics, blood thinners, antidepressants, and supplements can interact.
• Keep track of days: ketorolac is for short courses—stop when the planned course ends.

Alternative options for pain relief

The best alternative depends on your pain type (e.g., musculoskeletal, dental, post-procedure), your medical history, and the medicines you already take.

Common alternative approaches may include:

• Paracetamol for mild to moderate pain (often easier on the stomach than NSAIDs)
• Other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen—may be appropriate for some people, but still carry similar NSAID risks
• Topical NSAIDs (e.g., gels for certain types of pain) — may reduce systemic exposure
• Non-drug measures: rest, heat/ice, physiotherapy, stretching, and ergonomic changes
• For some pain types: specific strategies (for example, neuropathic pain may need different medicine classes)

If Toradol doesn’t suit you or you need longer-term pain control, ask a healthcare professional about safer options for your situation.

Australia market & legal context (overview)

In Australia, access to medicines is regulated to support safety. Ketorolac is typically available only under appropriate healthcare oversight due to its risk profile, particularly for gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney effects. Dispensing may be limited depending on formulation, prescriber requirements, and Australian regulatory guidance.

For up-to-date availability and the exact classification of your product, check the listing provided by your pharmacy or consult a pharmacist.

Recent guidance (general themes)

• Short duration: clinical practice emphasises using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
• Avoid combining NSAIDs: combining NSAIDs increases the chance of serious adverse events.
• Kidney and bleeding risk screening: pharmacists and clinicians often review history (ulcers, kidney disease, anticoagulants) before NSAID use.
• Patient counselling: emphasis on recognising red-flag symptoms like bleeding and allergic reactions.

Guidance may evolve as new safety information becomes available, and individual advice should be tailored to your health profile.

Delivery and availability

Toradol availability can vary across pharmacies and by formulation. Many online pharmacies in Australia provide home delivery where permitted by law and supply conditions.

What to expect when ordering:

• Stock availability: products may be subject to availability due to supply chain factors.
• Delivery times: delivery time depends on your location and the pharmacy’s dispatch schedule.
• Temperature considerations: ketorolac tablets generally do not require refrigeration; follow packaging directions.
• Packaging: medicines are typically delivered in secure tamper-evident packaging.

If you need urgent relief for severe pain, contact the pharmacy to confirm dispatch times or consider local urgent medical services if you have concerning symptoms.

Product information summary

FAQ — Toradol (Ketorolac)

Is Toradol suitable for everyone?

No. Toradol may not be suitable if you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, significant kidney disease, NSAID-triggered asthma, or if you take medicines that increase bleeding risk. Discuss your medical history with a pharmacist or clinician.

How quickly does Toradol work?

Ketorolac usually starts relieving pain within a short period after dosing, with peak effects often occurring within a few hours depending on the formulation and individual factors.

Can I take Toradol with food?

Yes. Taking it with food may reduce stomach irritation. However, it’s still important to avoid taking it with other NSAIDs or alcohol.

What should I avoid while taking Toradol?

• Avoid other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, aspirin for pain).
• Avoid alcohol.
• Be cautious with blood thinners, corticosteroids, and certain antidepressants—ask a pharmacist about interactions.

Can I take Toradol together with paracetamol?

Some people may use paracetamol alongside certain pain medicines, but it depends on your overall plan and health conditions. Check with a pharmacist to ensure the combination is appropriate for you and that you don’t exceed safe daily doses.

Why is Toradol limited to short courses?

The risk of serious side effects—especially stomach bleeding and kidney injury—tends to increase with higher doses and longer duration. Short courses help reduce these risks.

What are the warning signs of gastrointestinal bleeding?

Seek urgent medical help if you notice black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain, or unexplained weakness/dizziness.

What if I have kidney problems?

Because ketorolac is removed mainly through the kidneys, kidney impairment can increase drug exposure and risk. You may require a different plan or avoid ketorolac entirely. A pharmacist or clinician can advise based on your kidney function.

Can Toradol cause allergies?

Yes. Allergic reactions can occur, ranging from rash to severe reactions. Get urgent help if you have swelling of the face/lips, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Is Toradol safe to drive or operate machinery?

Some people may experience dizziness. If you feel unwell or dizzy, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.

Does Toradol treat the cause of pain?

Toradol primarily treats symptoms (pain and inflammation). It does not address underlying causes such as infection, injury requiring medical attention, or nerve-related pain. If your pain persists or worsens, seek medical advice.

When to seek urgent medical attention

If you have severe or worsening pain, symptoms of allergy, signs of bleeding, or signs of dehydration or kidney trouble, seek urgent medical care immediately. It’s always safer to get timely help when concerning symptoms appear.

Note: This information is general and may not cover all individual circumstances. If you have questions about whether Toradol is appropriate for you, speak with a pharmacist or other healthcare professional in Australia.