What Is Ketorolac?

Ketorolac is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the short-term management of moderately severe acute pain.

Sold under brand names like Toradol (oral and injection), Sprix (nasal spray), and Acular (eye drops), Ketorolac is one of the most potent NSAIDs available. Unlike over-the-counter options like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, it provides analgesia at the opioid level — making it a valuable non-narcotic option for acute pain management.

Key Facts

• Generic name: Ketorolac Tromethamine
• Brand names: Toradol, Sprix, Acular, Acular LS
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Manufacturers: Multiple generic manufacturers including Hospira (Pfizer), Fresenius Kabi, Hikma, and Athenex; Sprix by Assertio
• Controlled substance: No — Ketorolac is not a controlled substance
• Generic available: Yes — generic Ketorolac is widely available and affordable

What Is Ketorolac Used For?

Ketorolac is FDA-approved for:

• Short-term management of moderately severe acute pain — This is its primary use. It's intended for pain that would otherwise require opioid-level treatment, but for no more than 5 days.
• Reduction of eye inflammation after cataract surgery — Using the ophthalmic form (Acular).
• Relief of eye itching from seasonal allergies — Also using the ophthalmic form.

Doctors also commonly use Ketorolac off-label for:

• Migraine treatment in the emergency department
• Kidney stone (renal colic) pain
• Postoperative pain after orthopedic or dental surgery
• Acute musculoskeletal injuries
• Sickle cell crisis pain management
• Pain management in patients with opioid use disorder (as a non-addictive alternative)

To understand how Ketorolac relieves pain, read our guide on how Ketorolac works.

How Is Ketorolac Taken?

Ketorolac comes in several forms:

Oral Tablets (10 mg)

Oral Ketorolac should only be used as a follow-up to IV or IM injection therapy — it's not meant to be the first form you take. Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Maximum dose: 40 mg per day (four 10 mg tablets).

Intramuscular (IM) Injection

Given as a shot in the muscle, typically in a hospital, ER, or clinic. Standard dose: 60 mg as a single dose, or 30 mg every 6 hours (max 120 mg/day). For patients 65 and older: max 60 mg/day.

Intravenous (IV) Injection

Given directly into a vein in a healthcare setting. Dosing is similar to IM injection. Available in 15 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL concentrations.

Nasal Spray (Sprix)

One spray (15.75 mg) in each nostril every 6-8 hours, maximum 126 mg per day. This form allows patients to self-administer outside of a clinical setting.

Eye Drops (Acular, Acular LS)

Used for eye conditions only. Applied directly to the eye as directed by your ophthalmologist.

Critical rule: The total duration of Ketorolac use across ALL forms combined must not exceed 5 days.

Who Should Not Take Ketorolac?

Ketorolac has more contraindications than most NSAIDs. You should not take it if you have:

• Active or history of peptic ulcer disease or GI bleeding
• Advanced kidney disease or risk of kidney failure
• Known allergy to Ketorolac, Aspirin, or other NSAIDs
• History of asthma or hives triggered by Aspirin or NSAIDs
• Suspected or confirmed cerebrovascular bleeding
• Bleeding disorders or incomplete hemostasis

Ketorolac is also contraindicated:

• During labor and delivery
• In the third trimester of pregnancy
• As preventive pain medication before major surgery
• When taking other NSAIDs, Aspirin, Probenecid, or Pentoxifylline
• For use longer than 5 days

For more on what medications to avoid, see our guide on Ketorolac drug interactions.

How Much Does Ketorolac Cost?

One of the advantages of generic Ketorolac is that it's quite affordable:

• Generic oral tablets: $10-$25 for 20 tablets (10 mg) without insurance; as low as $10-$13 with a discount coupon
• Generic injection: $2-$10 per vial at hospitals
• Sprix nasal spray (brand): $1,700-$2,200 per box — significantly more expensive
• Acular eye drops: $13-$30 generic; $300+ for brand name

Most insurance plans cover generic Ketorolac tablets and injection with low copays ($0-$15). Sprix may require prior authorization.

For tips on reducing your out-of-pocket cost, check out our guide on how to save money on Ketorolac.

Final Thoughts

Ketorolac is a powerful, fast-acting NSAID that fills an important role in acute pain management — particularly as a non-opioid option. Its strict 5-day limit and extensive list of contraindications mean it's not for everyone, but for the right patient and the right situation, it can be extremely effective.

If your doctor has prescribed Ketorolac and you need help finding it, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy with it in stock. And if you're concerned about side effects, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.