When you need strong pain relief fast, ketorolac, a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for short-term moderate to severe pain. Also known as Toradol, it's often prescribed after surgery or for acute injuries—not for daily aches. Unlike regular painkillers, ketorolac packs a punch, but it’s not meant to be taken long-term. It’s stronger than ibuprofen or naproxen, but that power comes with serious risks if misused.
So how does it compare to other options? ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter NSAID used for headaches, menstrual cramps, and mild arthritis is safer for daily use but weaker. naproxen, another NSAID with longer-lasting effects, often used for chronic conditions like tendonitis gives you more hours of relief but still doesn’t match ketorolac’s intensity. Then there’s acetaminophen, a non-NSAID pain reliever that doesn’t reduce inflammation but is gentler on the stomach—it’s a better choice if you’re worried about bleeding or ulcers. Ketorolac doesn’t play nice with any of these when stacked together. Mixing it with other NSAIDs can land you in the ER.
What makes ketorolac different isn’t just strength—it’s restriction. It’s usually given as an injection in hospitals or as a short-course oral tablet (no more than 5 days). You won’t find it on pharmacy shelves like Advil. That’s because it can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage, or even heart issues if used too long. If you’ve been told to take ketorolac, ask: Is this for a sudden flare-up, or am I being set up for a long-term fix? The posts below break down real comparisons between ketorolac and other pain meds, showing you exactly where it shines, where it fails, and which alternatives might actually be safer—or just as effective—for your situation.
A clear, side‑by‑side comparison of Ketorolac (Toradol) with ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen and acetaminophen, covering uses, risks, dosing and how to pick the right pain reliever.
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