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How and where is the Toradol injection given?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Nov 12, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

How do you administer a ketorolac injection?

Ketorolac tromethamine (Toradol injection) is used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain in adults, usually after surgery. It may also be used “off-label” to treat migraine headaches. It is in a common class of medications called NSAIDs and works by stopping production of a compound that causes pain, fever, and inflammation (swelling).

Generic options for both the Toradol injection and oral tablet are available in the U.S.

A nasal spray form (brand name: Sprix) used for moderate-to-severe pain has also been approved by the FDA, but only comes as a brand name option. Sprix has many of the same warnings as the oral and injectable forms of ketorolac and should be used only for 5 days or less.

An ophthalmic solution (brand names: Acular, Acular LS, Acuvail) is also approved but is used to relieve eye itching caused by seasonal allergies or to reduce swelling and pain after cataract surgery or corneal refractive surgery (LASIK).

How do you take Toradol injection?

Ketorolac tromethamine injection may be used as a single dose, or given as multiple doses on a regular or "as needed" schedule for the management of moderately severe acute pain that requires analgesia, not to exceed a total of 5 days. This will be determined by your healthcare provider.

Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your age, weight or kidney function. If you have advanced kidney disease or are over 65 years of age, you may not be able to use ketorolac tromethamine (Toradol) injection.

Tell your doctor if you take aspirin or other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. You should not use ketorolac if you are currently receiving aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Related questions

How does Toradol come?

Ketorolac tromethamine (Toradol) for acute pain treatment comes as an injection and as an oral tablet. The brand name product Toradol is no longer on the U.S. market.

See more: ketorolac (Toradol) dosing (in more detail)

Where do you give a Toradol (ketorolac) shot?

Toradol (ketorolac) intramuscular injections are usually given in the prominent part of the hip (ventrogluteal injection site) or in the outer, upper arm area (deltoid injection site). The hip may be preferred because of the large muscle mass in the area which may be less painful than the arm. Intravenous (IV) injections are given directly into a vein.

Injections will be given to you by a healthcare provider in a doctor's office, clinic or hospital.

Your doctor will determine the best place where ketorolac tromethamine (Toradol) can be injected.

How long does a Toradol injection last?

Do Toradol injections hurt?

As with many injections, pain at the injection site can also occur with the Toradol (ketorolac) injection.

Injection site pain with Toradol is a common side effect and occurs in about 1% to 10% of patients. Bruising and stinging at the place of injection may also occur.

In general, intramuscular (IM) injections like ketorolac tromethamine can be more painful than subcutaneous injections, which are given into the layer of fat right under the skin. However, in most patients, this pain should be transient and short-lived.

Speak with your healthcare provider if you are concerned about feeling pain from the Toradol injection.

How many Toradol injections can you get?

Your doctor will determine the number of ketorolac (Toradol) injections you should receive based on your pain level. In general, this medicine is used for the shortest period of time possible to help avoid serious side effects like stomach and kidney problems.

In some cases, after your first injection, you may continue treatment with oral ketorolac tablets.

You will not receive ketorolac injection or a combination of the injection and tablets for more than 5 days in length.

This is not all the information you need to know about Toradol (ketorolac) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full ketorolac information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

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