Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Ketorolac Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Ketorolac 10mg Oral (generic) | $8 – $15 | $2 – $6 |
| Ketorolac 30mg/ml IM Injection (generic) | $5 – $15 | $2 – $8 |
| Ketorolac 15mg Nasal Spray (generic) | $80 – $200 | $15 – $50 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1-2 generic — potent NSAID for short-term acute pain; maximum 5-day use
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Oral generic ketorolac costs $8 to $25 for a short course. Injectable ketorolac (often given in ERs) costs $5 to $15 for the drug, though administration fees are additional.
Ketorolac (Toradol) is one of the most potent NSAIDs and carries significantly higher risks of GI bleeding and kidney damage with prolonged use. FDA limits oral use to 5 days maximum.
Ketorolac 30mg IM has been shown to provide pain relief comparable to morphine 10mg for many types of acute pain, making it a valuable non-opioid alternative for short-term severe pain.