Ketorolac and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

When you're nursing and need pain relief, ketorolac, a potent NSAID used for short-term pain management, often prescribed after surgery or for severe inflammation. Also known as Toradol, it's effective—but not always safe for breastfeeding mothers. Unlike ibuprofen or acetaminophen, ketorolac isn't routinely recommended during nursing because it enters breast milk in measurable amounts, and its effects on newborns aren't fully understood.

There’s a difference between occasional use and long-term use. If you took a single dose after a C-section or dental procedure, the risk is likely low. But if you’re on ketorolac daily, you’re exposing your baby to a drug that can affect platelet function and kidney development. Studies show trace amounts appear in breast milk within hours of ingestion, and premature or newborn infants—especially those under 6 weeks—are more vulnerable because their livers and kidneys can’t clear drugs efficiently. breastfeeding, the natural process of feeding an infant with mother’s milk, which provides essential nutrients and immune protection shouldn’t be stopped lightly, but you also shouldn’t ignore potential drug risks. NSAID safety, the evaluation of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for use during pregnancy and lactation is a balancing act: the goal is relief without harm.

Many moms wonder if they can switch to something else. The good news? pain relief while nursing, safe and effective options for managing discomfort without affecting milk supply or infant health exists. Ibuprofen is the go-to NSAID for nursing mothers—it passes into milk in tiny amounts and has decades of safety data. Acetaminophen is another solid choice for general pain. Even topical treatments like lidocaine patches or cold compresses can reduce the need for oral meds. If your pain is severe enough to require ketorolac, talk to your doctor about timing: take it right after nursing, so the drug level drops before the next feeding. Avoid extended use unless absolutely necessary.

What you’ll find below are real, practical posts from moms and clinicians who’ve dealt with this exact dilemma. You’ll see how ketorolac compares to other painkillers during breastfeeding, what the research actually says about milk transfer, and how to make smart choices when you’re tired, in pain, and worried about your baby. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear info to help you decide what’s right for you and your child.