Ketorolac Safety: What You Need to Know Before You Take It

Ketorolac is a strong painkiller that works like other NSAIDs but is often prescribed for short‑term, post‑surgery pain. It can melt away severe aches, but misuse can lead to serious stomach, kidney, or heart problems. Below we break down the basics so you can decide if it’s right for you and how to avoid the worst side effects.

When Ketorolac Is Safe to Use

Doctors typically limit ketorolac to five days or less. The drug should only be taken when you need moderate to severe pain that isn’t managed by over‑the‑counter options. Before starting, your doctor will check your health history for:

• Previous ulcers, bleeding, or stomach surgery.
• Kidney disease or reduced kidney function.
• Heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of stroke.
• Allergies to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

If you have any of these conditions, the doctor may choose a different medication. If you’re cleared, follow the prescription exactly: the usual adult dose is 10‑30 mg every six to eight hours, never exceeding 120 mg in 24 hours.

Take ketorolac with food or milk to protect your stomach lining. Staying hydrated helps your kidneys clear the drug faster, which reduces the chance of toxicity.

Red Flags: When to Stop or Skip Ketorolac

Even short courses can cause trouble. Watch for these warning signs and stop the drug immediately if they appear:

• Sharp stomach pain, black stools, or vomiting blood.
• Sudden swelling in your legs, unexplained weight gain, or a rapid rise in blood pressure.
• Decreased urine output or feeling unusually tired.
• Rash, itching, or any sign of an allergic reaction.

If you notice any of these, call your doctor or head to urgent care. Never try to “play it cool” by cutting the dose on your own; the risks can jump up quickly.

Drug interactions are another big safety factor. Ketorolac should not be mixed with:

• Other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin.
• Blood thinners such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or newer anticoagulants.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or certain antidepressants, which can raise bleeding risk.
• High‑dose steroids, which also irritate the gut.

If you’re on any of these, tell your prescriber. Sometimes a short‑term switch to acetaminophen or a different pain regimen is safer.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid ketorolac unless a doctor says it’s absolutely necessary. The drug can affect fetal circulation and may pass into breast milk, potentially harming the baby.

Finally, keep an eye on the calendar. Mark the start date of your prescription and set a reminder to stop after five days. The “short‑term only” rule isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a safeguard against ulcers, kidney injury, and heart complications.

In short, ketorolac can be a lifesaver for acute pain, but only when used correctly. Check your health history, follow the dosage, take it with food, stay hydrated, and watch for warning signs. When in doubt, call your pharmacist or doctor—they’re the best source for a personalized safety check.

By staying informed and sticking to the doctor’s plan, you can reap the pain‑relief benefits without the nasty side effects.