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
  • Kidney damage
• Gastrointestinal
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
• Nervous system
  • Dizziness
  • Hallucinations (rare)
• Whole body
  • Fainting

Home Treatment

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, or a local emergency number

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.

See National Poison Control center.

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

Expectations (prognosis)

Normally, castor oil should cause few problems. Recovery is very likely.