The medication known by the brand name Toradol has its active ingredient identified generically as Ketorolac. While "Toradol" remains a recognized brand name, "Ketorolac" is the standard generic designation for the drug substance itself.
Understanding Drug Names: Brand vs. Generic
In the pharmaceutical world, medications typically have both a brand name (proprietary name) and a generic name (non-proprietary name).
- Brand Name: A name given by the manufacturer for marketing purposes. It's often catchy and easier to remember. Toradol is an example of a brand name.
- Generic Name: The official chemical or established name of the active ingredient. This name is consistent across all manufacturers and is generally used by healthcare professionals. Ketorolac is the generic name for the active ingredient found in Toradol.
Key Names for This Medication
The core active pharmaceutical ingredient is known by the following names:
| Type of Name | Name(s) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Toradol | A commercial name used for marketing. |
| Generic Name | Ketorolac | The established non-proprietary name of the drug. |
| Other Name | Ketorolac tromethamine | A specific salt form of Ketorolac, also recognized. |
Why is the Generic Name Important?
Using generic names like Ketorolac is important for several reasons in healthcare and commerce:
- Clarity: It reduces confusion when multiple brands contain the same active ingredient.
- Consistency: Healthcare providers and pharmacists worldwide use the generic name, ensuring universal understanding regardless of regional brand availability.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generic drugs are often more affordable than their brand-name counterparts once the original patent expires, making them widely accessible.
For more detailed information on Ketorolac, you can refer to its dedicated Wikipedia page.
