Cochrane Database Syst Rev

NSAIDs effective for acute renal colic pain relief

March 27, 2025

Study details: This Cochrane review analyzed 29 randomized trials involving 3,593 participants aged 16 and older, comparing the efficacy and safety of various NSAIDs for acute renal colic. The studies spanned 23 countries, with durations ranging from 30 minutes to 48 hours.

Results: NSAIDs were found to be more effective than placebo in reducing renal colic pain. IV ibuprofen resulted in superior pain relief within 30 minutes compared with IV ketorolac. Route of administration (IM vs. IV) had little impact on pain reduction, though IV administration was preferred over rectal. Adverse events weren’t sufficiently reported to draw definitive conclusions.

Clinical impact: NSAIDs provide effective pain relief for acute renal colic and may be preferable to opioids due to a lower incidence of adverse effects. The findings support the use of NSAIDs as a first-line treatment in emergency settings, potentially reducing reliance on opioids and their associated risks.

Source:

Afshar K, et al. (2025, March 14). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for acute renal colic. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40084512/