Castor oil overdose
Definition
This is poisoning from swallowing a large amount (overdose) of castor oil.
Alternative Names
Poisonous Ingredient
- Castor oil
Where Found
Castor oil comes from the castor oil plant (ricinus communis). It can be found in the following products:
- Castor oil
- Alphamul
- Emulsoil
- Fleet Flavored Castor Oil
- Laxopol
- Unisol
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
- Bladder and kidneys
- Gastrointestinal
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Nervous system
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations (rare)
- Whole body
- Fainting
Home Care
Castor oil is not considered very toxic. Call poison control for treatment information.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
- Time it was swallowed
- Amount swallowed
Poison Control
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive:
- Medicine to treat the symptoms
Outlook (Prognosis)
Normally, castor oil should cause few problems. Recovery is very likely.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.
