Ketorolac, the generic of Toradol, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, used for the management of moderate to severe pain. Ketorolac acts by preventing the formation of chemicals in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins lead to inflammation and pain in the body; ketorolac will cause a decrease in both. Generally, the medication is prescribed to help control pain and swelling following a medical procedure, back pain, kidney stones, and cancer pain. Several side effects may occur with the use of the drug; a health care professional should be consulted if there are any concerns.
Headache
The most common side effect that occurs with the use of ketorolac is a headache. About 17 percent of individuals on the medication may experience headache, reports the "Drug Information Handbook." This adverse effect should begin to decrease as time goes on and the body adjusts to new drug. A pain reliever, such as Advil, or ibuprofen, may be used to alleviate the headache, but the patient should seek advice from a health care professional before taking any over-the-counter drug. If the headache worsens or becomes severe, the patient should inform a physician.
Nausea
Nausea is another common side effect seen in patients taking ketorolac. About 12 percent of patients may develop nausea while on ketorolac. The physician should advise the patient to eat small, frequent meals and chew gum to avoid feeling nauseous. The patient should also avoid eating meal with a high fat content. If the nausea worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing, fever, or diarrhea, the patient should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
Gastrointestinal Pain
Ketorolac may also produce gastrointestinal pain, which is pain in the abdomen and intestines. This side effect may be present in up to 13 percent of patients. Ketorolac may cause indigestion or upset stomach in about 12 percent of individuals, as well. Symptoms may include pain in the upper abdomen, feeling of fullness, bloating, nausea, and belching. If these effects are persistent and bothersome, the patient should seek medical advice. The physician may be able to switch the medication or offer an effective solution.
Dizziness
Dizziness may occur in about 7 percent of individuals, according to the "Drug Information Handbook." The patient should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery without knowing how the drug may affect his function. Drowsiness may also occur with the use of the medication and is seen in about 12 percent of patients. The patient should use caution when performing any activities which require alertness. These side effects will diminish as the body grows accustomed to the medication.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Lacy, Charles F., Armstrong, Lora L., et al; 2007
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Dipiro, Joseph T., Talbert,Robert L., et al; 2008
Member Comments