Toradol(ketorolac)is anonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug(NSAID) that treats pain and inflammation.
Tramadol, often referred to by its brand nameUltram, is an opioid medication used to treat pain.
This article will provide detailed information about both U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved prescription drugs.
Hailshadow / Getty Images
Hailshadow / Getty Images
What Is Toradol?
Toradol contains ketorolac, anonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug(NSAID).
Toradol has associated risks and can only be used for five days.
Sometimes, healthcare providers prescribe a medication for a use that is not FDA-approved.
This is called off-label prescribing.
Toradol is only FDA-approved for use in adults 18 years and older.
The way Toradol works is not entirely understood.
It’s thought to prevent the body from producingprostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are substances that cause pain andinflammation.
So, by preventing the production of prostaglandins, Toradol helps reduce symptoms of pain and inflammation.
What Is Tramadol?
Ultram (tramadol) is anopioid pain medicationfor severe pain.
The FDA approved its use in adults to treat pain severe enough to require opioid pain medicine.
It is acontrolled substance, which means there is potential for abuse and dependence.
The way tramadol works is not completely understood.
It’s thought to work by binding to opioid receptors.
It also inhibits the reuptake ofneurotransmittersin the brain that carry messages such as:
This results in pain relief.
It is also available as a 10 milligrams oral tablet taken by mouth.
The oral tablet should only be taken after the medication is injected.
Toradol is only approved in adults.
It is not approved for children or teenagers under 18 years old.
However, some healthcare providers prescribe it off-label in these populations.
Sometimes, a one-time oral dose of 20 milligrams will be given before the 10 milligram dose is started.
Toradol should be prescribed at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible period.
Older adults or individuals who weigh less than 110 pounds may be prescribed a lower dosage.
As with Toradol, the lowest effective dose of tramadol should be prescribed for the shortest time.
Older adults may be prescribed a lower dose.
The drug should be slowly tapered when stopping tramadol to avoidwithdrawal symptoms.
Your healthcare provider will provide you with a tapering schedule.
Toradol is not appropriate for everyone.
There are many conditions where the healthcare provider will weigh risks and benefits to determine if Toradol is safe.
If Toradol is prescribed, you will be closely monitored.
Some examples include people with heart, liver, and specific GI problems.
Tramadol is not appropriate for everyone.
Tramadol may be prescribed with caution in some people only if the healthcare provider determines it is safe.
There are many conditions where the healthcare provider will weigh risks and benefits to determine if tramadol is safe.
If tramadol is prescribed, you will be closely monitored.
Some examples include people with particular heart, liver, or lung conditions.
Interactions for Toradol and Tramadol
Both medications have lengthy lists of potential drug interactions.
The following will cover some of the major drug interactions.
Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about drug interactions and how they may affect you.
Toradol Interactions
Avoid alcohol while taking Toradol.
Alcohol combined with Toradol can increase the risk of stomach and intestinal bleeding.
This can cause death.
Avoid alcohol while taking tramadol.
Frequently Asked Questions
NSAID stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
Toradol (ketorolac) is an NSAID.
NSAIDs work by reducing the body’s production of substances called prostaglandins, which cause pain and inflammation.
Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice on the best medication for you.
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