Ketorolac tromethamine

Brand names: Toradol

Why is Ketorolac tromethamine prescribed?

Toradol, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve moderately severe, acute pain. It is prescribed for a limited amount of time (no more than 5 days for adults and as a single dose for children), not for long-term therapy.

Most important fact about Ketorolac tromethamine

Toradol can cause serious side effects, including ulcers and internal bleeding. Never take it for more than 5 days.

How should you take Ketorolac tromethamine?

Toradol works fastest when taken on an empty stomach, but an antacid can be taken if it causes upset. Take Ketorolac tromethamine exactly as prescribed.

Take Toradol with a full glass of water. Also, do not lie down for about 20 minutes after taking it. This will help to prevent irritation of your upper digestive tract.

• If you miss a dose...If you take Toradol on a regular schedule, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature, away from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Toradol.

• Side effects may include:Diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, indigestion, nausea, stomach and intestinal pain, swelling due to fluid retention

Why should Ketorolac tromethamine not be prescribed?

Do not take Toradol if it has ever given you an allergic reaction. Also avoid Ketorolac tromethamine if you have ever had an allergic reaction—such as nasal polyps (tumors), swelling of the face, limbs, and throat, hives, wheezing, light-headedness—to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin.

Do not take Toradol if you have ever had a peptic ulcer or stomach or intestinal bleeding. Avoid it if you have severe kidney disease or bleeding problems.

Never combine Ketorolac tromethamine with aspirin, NSAIDs, or probenecid. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Ketorolac tromethamine

Remember that Toradol has been known to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem.

This drug should be used with caution if you have kidney or liver disease. It may cause liver inflammation or kidney problems in some people.

Toradol is not recommended for long-term use, since side effects increase over time. This medication should be taken for no more than 5 days.

If you are an older adult, use Ketorolac tromethamine cautiously.

Toradol can increase water retention. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, use Ketorolac tromethamine with care.

This medication can prolong bleeding time. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, take Toradol with caution.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ketorolac tromethamine

If Toradol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Toradol with the following:

ACE inhibitor drugs such as the blood pressure medications Vasotec and CapotenAntidepressants such as ProzacAntiepileptic drugs (Dilantin, Tegretol)Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as MotrinBlood thinners such as CoumadinLithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)Major tranquilizers such as NavaneMethotrexate (Rheumatrex)ProbenecidTranquilizers such as XanaxWater pills such as Lasix and Dyazide

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Toradol should not be taken late in pregnancy; during this period, it can harm the developing baby. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Toradol appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. This medication should not be used while you are breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Ketorolac tromethamine

ADULTS

Your doctor will give you Toradol intravenously or intramuscularly to start, then have you switch to the tablets. Most patients take 2 tablets for the first dose (20 milligrams) and then 1 tablet (10 milligrams) every 4 to 6 hours. You should not take more than 40 milligrams per day and should not take Toradol for more than 5 days in all.

CHILDREN

For children under 16, the doctor may prescribe a single dose of Toradol, by intravenous or intramuscular injection, after an operation. Toradol is not recommended for children under 2.

OLDER ADULTS

Doses are usually lower for people over 65, those with kidney problems, and those who weigh less than 110 pounds. Your doctor will tailor the best dosage for you.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Toradol overdose may include:Drowsiness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting

In rare cases, the victim may develop stomach bleeding, high blood pressure, kidney failure, impaired breathing, or coma. Severe allergic reactions are also possible.