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NSAID (Parenteral)

Ketorolac Trometamol

Brand names: Toradol

Ketorolac trometamol is a potent NSAID used for the short-term management of moderate to severe acute pain, often in the postoperative setting.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis to produce strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Prescribing in practice

  • Use is restricted to short-term treatment because of a high risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration and renal impairment, with a maximum duration of therapy specified in the SPC.
  • It is contraindicated in patients with significant renal impairment, active or previous peptic ulceration, bleeding disorders and in those at high bleeding risk.
  • Avoid combining with other NSAIDs and use caution with anticoagulants and around major surgery owing to platelet effects.

Monitoring

Monitor renal function, fluid balance and signs of gastrointestinal or operative-site bleeding throughout the short course of treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • This is a strong painkiller intended only for a short period.
  • Report any black stools, vomiting blood, reduced urine output or unusual bruising or bleeding immediately.
  • Do not take other anti-inflammatory painkillers at the same time.

Evidence & guidelines

Ketorolac's restriction to short-term use reflects its recognised risk of serious gastrointestinal and renal adverse effects.

Reference: Ketorolac SPC; Oxford Pain Group; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways