Castor Oil (castor oil)
Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
Overview
Castor oil, a stimulant laxative, is a fixed oil obtained from the seeds of Ricinus communis.
USES: Castor oil is used to treat constipation. It may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery. Castor oil is known as a stimulant laxative.
It works by increasing the movement of the intestines, helping the stool to come out.
Generic name: castor oil
Pronunciation: (KAS/tor)
Reference product & biosimilars
No reference, biosimilar or interchangeable associated with this drug.
Today’s intelligence on Castor Oil
Indications
The following indications are listed for Castor Oil:
- Constipation
Dosing
The usual adult dose of castor oil for constipation is 15 mL; however, castor oil usually should be reserved for total colonic evacuation, such as prior to surgery or radiologic, sigmoidoscopic, or proctoscopic procedures. For these purposes, the usual dose of castor oil is 15-60 mL for adults and children 12 years of age and older, 5-15 mL for children 2-11 years of age, or 1-5 mL for children younger than 2 years of age, administered as a single dose about 16 hours before the surgery or procedure. To prepare for colonic surgery or radiologic, sigmoidoscopic, or proctoscopic procedures, the patient should receive a residue-free diet one day before the surgery or procedure and a cleansing rectal enema (e.g., tap water, soap suds, saline laxative, bisacodyl) on the day of the examination. Additionally, standardized senna fruit extract may be administered 4 hours after castor oil.
Castor oil is administered orally. Emulsions or aromatic preparations somewhat mask the disagreeable taste of castor oil. Containers of castor oil emulsion should be shaken before using, and the emulsion may be mixed with 120-240 mL of water, milk, fruit juice, or soft drink before administration.
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Drug interactions
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There are no contraindication interactions for this drug.
There are no severe interactions for this drug.
There are no moderate interactions for this drug.
Contraindications
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There are no contraindication contraindications for this drug.
There are no severe contraindications for this drug.
There are no moderate contraindications for this drug.
Adverse reactions
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There are no severe adverse reactions for this drug.
There are no less severe adverse reactions for this drug.
Precautions
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ICD codes
No ICD codes are available for this drug.
Formulary status
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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
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