Toradol Injections
Toradol, also known as Ketorolac, is a medication used to relieve acute short-term pain. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can reduce swelling in order to promote healing. A Toradol injection, administered either intravenously or intramuscularly, is usually given to provide pain relief after a surgical procedure, followed by up to 5 days of oral administration. While not a narcotic and not addictive, Toradol is nevertheless not meant for use for longer than 5 days. Although a helpful medication for short-term pain relief, Toradol has a great many contraindications and potentially dangerous side effects.
Toradol should not be used for the relief of minor or long-term pain. This medication is contraindicated for patients who:
- Are at increased risk of heart attack or stroke
- Are breastfeeding
- Have bleeding or clotting problems
- Have diabetes
- Drink alcohol excessively
- Have kidney disease
Patients who are about to undergo coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) should not take Toradol prior to or immediately after surgery. Those who are having dental surgery should notify their dentists if they are taking Toradol. It is important that patients taking other NSAIDS, anticoagulants (blood thinners) or oral corticosteroids inform their doctors before having Toradol administered.
Toradol also carries the risks of other NSAIDs which include causing:
- Ulcers or intestinal bleeding
- Stomach pain or heartburn
- Unusual stools
- Vomiting
Side effects associated with Toradol include:
- Discomfort at the injection site
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
It is also possible for patients to have a more serious adverse reaction immediately after a Toradol injection, particularly if the patient is elderly or weak. These may include: fainting, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, slurred speech or anaphylaxis, any of which may signify a life-threatening emergency and all of which require immediate medical attention.