Is Toradol the same as tramadol?
No.
Ketorolac (Toradol; Acuvail, Acular LS, Acular, ReadySharp ketorolac) is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Other NSAID’s include ibuprofen, meloxicam, naproxen, and aspirin. It works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme that plays a key role in prostaglandin synthesis. Now, prostaglandin is a hormone that serves several purposes, including working as a vasodilator (widens blood vessels). Therefore, by inhibiting synthesis of prostaglandin, ketorolac can reduce inflammation (as blood vessels are less prone to localized inflammation without the presence of this hormone.)
By contrast, tramadol is an opioid analgesic. Experts believe it works by preventing the body from receiving certain pain signals. It may do so by two means:
- Binding to μ-opioid receptors (MOR) in the CNS , which is common among opioid analgesics
- Preventing the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that research links to pain reception, among other functions
Both tramadol and Toradol are most often used for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe pain and the quick-release versions are taken about every 4 to 6 hours. A difference besides the mechanism of action between these two drugs is that tramadol is a controlled substance; Toradol is not. This classification means that there is stricter regulation of tramadol as well as a greater risk of abuse and addiction. (That does not, however, mean that it is impossible to abuse Toradol.)
Which is better, tramadol or Toradol?
Which one is best for you depends on several factors, including what is causing your pain. For example, one 2012 study found that an intramuscular injection of tramadol was tolerated better post-maxillofacial-surgery than ketorolac was. They both work differently and as such have different places in treating pain. Toradol is commonly prescribed in non geriatric patients without histories of gastro-intestinal issues, bleeding problems, or patients taking anticoagulants(warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, etc.) because toradol can increase risk of bleeding. Toradol is better at controlling inflammation and fever than tramadol. Toradol is not generally a medication you would take for chronic pain, and it is generally only prescribed for 5 days.
Can you take tramadol with Toradol?
Limited research suggests that low-dose use of tramadol with NSAIDs can produce positive pain-relieving effects. It’s important to note, however, that you should never take any medicationâprescription or over the counterâwith tramadol without first consulting with your prescribing physician. For more information on tramadol interactions, visit our interactions page.
Is Toradol stronger than tramadol?
Currently, there aren’t any studies directly comparing the potency of Toradol versus tramadol; both are used to treat moderate to severe pain.
If your doctor prescribes Toradol, be sure to address the risks of taking it. The FDA warns that serious gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, ulcers or damage to the stomach/instestines could occur during the use of Toradol.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
