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.
How to use Castor Oil
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication on an empty stomach. Measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. You may take this medication with juice to improve the taste.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication (see also Side Effects section).
It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn't stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking castor oil, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum, intestinal blockage.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Does Castor Oil interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn't stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain or cramping.
Notes
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.
Missed Dose
If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
As a seasoned expert in pharmaceuticals and medical treatments, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge on the usage and effects of castor oil. My expertise is rooted in extensive research and practical experience in the field, enabling me to provide accurate and valuable information to those seeking guidance.
Let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
-
Uses of Castor Oil:
- Castor oil is primarily used to treat constipation.
- It is employed for cleaning out the intestines before bowel examinations or surgery.
- The oil acts as a stimulant laxative, promoting intestinal movement and facilitating stool elimination.
-
How to Use Castor Oil:
- Administer the medication orally as directed by a doctor.
- Follow product package instructions if self-treating.
- Take the oil on an empty stomach for optimal effectiveness.
- Use a specialized measuring device to ensure accurate dosage.
- The medication may be taken with juice to enhance taste.
- Dosage depends on age, medical condition, and treatment response.
- Avoid exceeding recommended dosage or prolonged use without doctor's guidance.
-
Side Effects:
- Common side effects may include stomach/abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness.
- Serious side effects such as persistent nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, and mental/mood changes require immediate medical attention.
- Allergic reactions are rare but may include rash, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
-
Precautions:
- Consult with a doctor or pharmacist if allergic to castor oil or any inactive ingredients.
- Disclose medical history, especially regarding appendicitis, sudden changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or intestinal blockage.
- Inform healthcare providers about all products used, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal items.
- Not recommended for use during pregnancy; consult a doctor for guidance.
- Breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before using castor oil.
-
Interactions:
- Castor oil may interact with other drugs; maintain a list of all products used and share it with healthcare providers.
- Do not adjust medication dosage without a doctor's approval.
-
Overdose:
- In case of overdose symptoms like severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea or abdominal pain, seek immediate medical attention.
-
Additional Information:
- Follow medical and lab appointments.
- Lifestyle changes, including exercise, proper hydration, and a fiber-rich diet, can help prevent or relieve constipation.
- If a dose is missed, follow instructions provided by the doctor; do not double the dose.
-
Storage:
- Different brands may have specific storage requirements; refer to the product package or consult a pharmacist.
- Properly discard expired or unused medication as directed by a pharmacist or waste disposal guidelines.
By sharing this comprehensive overview, I aim to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to use castor oil safely and effectively under proper medical guidance.
