Castor oil is primarily used for constipation as it inhibits the reabsorption of fluid and electrolytes in the small intestine. It should be used as a temporary measure. Patients with rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and pregnant patients should avoid using it. Pregnant females at term use castor oil at home for the induction of labor and uterine contractions.

Other uses of castor oil:

Since it is a nutrient, has vitamin E and some antifungal properties, it is widely used as a topical therapy for hair. Some people use it for weight loss as it is an anorexant, has laxative properties and inhibits water reabsorption from the gut. Others have used castor oil for skin conditions and psoriasis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Castor oil Dose in Adults

Castor oil for Constipation in Adults:

• 15 to 60 mL orally as a single dose.

Castor oil Dose in Childrens

Note: Other laxatives that are less likely to result in adverse effects like fluid and electrolytes imbalance have replaced castor oil. It Produces bowel evacuation typically in 6 to 12 hours.

Castor oil for Constipation in Children

• Children 2 - 11 years of age:
  • 5 - 15 mL as a single dose as needed
• Children older than 12 years and Adolescents:
  • 15 - 60 mL as a single dose as needed

Pregnancy Category D

• Induction of labor may be caused by the consumption of castor oil during pregnancy. Castor oil should not be used during pregnancy as a laxative.

Use during breastfeeding

• Lactating women should be cautious when using the drug.  

Castor oil Dose in Rneal Disease:

Avoid using castor oil in patients with renal failure.

Castor oil Dose in Liver Disease:

Castor oil may be used with caution in patients with advnced liver disease.

Common Side Effects Of Castor Oil Incllude:

• Cardiovascular:
  • Hypotension
• Central nervous system:
  • Dizziness
  • Pelvic congestion syndrome
• Endocrine & metabolic:
  • Electrolyte disturbance
• Gastrointestinal:
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea

Contraindications to Castor oil use:

• Castor oil should not be used to evacuate bowel obstruction or absolute constipation.
• It is best to avoid it during pregnancy, as it can cause abortions or preterm labor.

Warnings and Precautions 

• It is best to stop using it for more than one week. If you have abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting or if there are any rectal bleeding symptoms, don't use it.

Monitor:

Monitor vital signs, hydration status, Renal functions and electrolytes

How to administer Castor oil:

It should be taken on an empty stomach with juice or carbonated beverages. Avoid taking it at bedtime because of its rapid onset of action.

Mechanism of action of Castor oil for constipation:

It decreases fluid and electrolyt absorption and stimulates peristalsis through its primary action in the small intestinale.

It takes between 1 and 3 hours for the action to begin, but it can take up to 12 hours.  

International Brands of Castor oil:

• Laxatrol
• Oleum Ricini

Castor oil Brands in Pakistan: