Note: Produces bowel evacuation in 6 to 12 hours. Use of castor oil has generally been replaced with other laxatives (eg, PEG solutions, lactulose) less likely to cause adverse effects (eg, electrolyte disturbances) (Tabbers 2014):
Constipation, occasional: Oral:
Children 2 to 11 years: 5 to 15 mL as a single daily dose as needed
Children ≥12 years and Adolescents: 15 to 60 mL as a single daily dose as needed
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling.
(For additional information see "Castor oil: Drug information")
Bowel evacuation, constipation: Oil: Oral: 15 to 60 mL as a single dose.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Oil, Oral:
GoodSense: (118 mL)
Generic: (59 mL, 118 mL, 177 mL, 473 mL)
No
Oral: Do not administer at bedtime because of rapid onset of action; chill or administer with milk, juice, or carbonated beverage to improve palatability; administer on an empty stomach for quicker onset (Brunton 2006)
Do not administer at bedtime because of rapid onset of action. Should be administered on an empty stomach with juice or carbonated beverages.
Protect from heat.
Treatment of occasional constipation (OTC product: FDA approved in ≥2 years and adults)
There are no adverse reactions listed in the manufacturer's labeling.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Appropriate use: Do not use for longer than 1 week or when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding are present unless directed by health care provider.
None known.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the Lexicomp drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the Lexicomp drug interactions program
Sodium Sulfate: Laxatives (Stimulant) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Sodium Sulfate. Specifically, the risk of mucosal ulceration or ischemic colitis may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
Should be taken on an empty stomach with juice or carbonated beverages.
Ingestion of castor oil may be associated with induction of labor. Use of castor oil as a laxative during pregnancy should be avoided (Cullen 2007; Hall 2011; Wald 2003).
Stool output, electrolytes
Acts primarily in the small intestine; hydrolyzed to ricinoleic acid which reduces net absorption of fluid and electrolytes and stimulates peristalsis
Onset of action: 1 to 3 hours (Brunton 2006) but may take up to 12 hours
Oil (Castor Oil Oral)
100% (per mL): $0.02
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