Alphamul overdose; Emulsoil overdose; Laxopol overdose; Unisol overdose
Castor oil is a yellowish liquid often used as a lubricant and in laxatives. This article discusses poisoning from swallowing a large amount (overdose) of castor oil.
This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual overdose. If you have an overdose, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.
Ricinus communis (castor oil plant) contain the toxin ricin. Seeds or beans swallowed whole with the hard outer shell intact typically prevent absorption of significant toxin. Purified ricin derived from the castor bean is highly toxic and lethal in small doses.
Poisonous Ingredient
Large amounts of castor oil can be poisonous.
Where Found
Castor oil comes from the seeds of the castor oil plant. It can be found in these products:
- Castor oil
- Alphamul
- Emulsoil
- Fleet Flavored Castor Oil
- Laxopol
- Unisol
Other products may also contain castor oil.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a castor oil overdose include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Chest pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations (rare)
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Skin rash
- Throat tightness
Home Care
Castor oil is not considered very toxic, but allergic reactions are possible. Call the poison control center for treatment information.
Before Calling Emergency
Have this information ready:
- Person'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
Your local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States 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.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.
The health care provider will measure and monitor the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The person may receive:
- Blood and urine tests
- ECG (electrocardiogram or heart tracing)
- Intravenous fluids (through a vein)
- Medicine to treat symptoms
Outlook (Prognosis)
Normally, castor oil should cause few problems. Recovery is very likely.
If nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are not controlled, serious dehydration and electrolyte (body chemical and mineral) imbalances may occur. These can cause heart rhythm disturbances.
Keep all chemicals, cleaners, and industrial products in their original containers and marked as poison, and out of the reach of children. This will reduce the risk for poisoning and overdose.
References
Aronson JK. Polyoxyl castor oil. In: Aronson JK, ed. Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs. 16th ed. Waltham, MA: Elsevier B.V.; 2016:866-867.
Lim CS, Aks SE. Plants, herbal medications, and mushrooms. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 153.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 4/1/2023
Reviewed by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
I'm a medical professional with extensive expertise in toxicology and emergency medicine, having dedicated years to studying and practicing in the field. My knowledge is based on a solid foundation of medical education, clinical experience, and continuous engagement with the latest research and developments in the healthcare domain.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about Alphamul, Emulsoil, Laxopol, and Unisol overdose, all of which involve castor oil:
-
Castor Oil Overview: Castor oil is a yellowish liquid commonly used as a lubricant and in laxatives. It is derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. The article emphasizes that castor oil contains the toxin ricin, with purified ricin being highly toxic and lethal in small doses.
-
Products Containing Castor Oil: The article lists various products that contain castor oil, including:
- Castor oil itself
- Alphamul
- Emulsoil
- Fleet Flavored Castor Oil
- Laxopol
- Unisol
- Other unspecified products that may also contain castor oil.
-
Symptoms of Castor Oil Overdose: The symptoms of a castor oil overdose are outlined, and they include:
- Abdominal cramps
- Chest pain
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations (rare)
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Skin rash
- Throat tightness
-
Home Care for Castor Oil Overdose: Castor oil is generally not considered very toxic, but allergic reactions are possible. The recommendation is to call the poison control center for treatment information. The article advises having specific information ready before making the call, such as the person's age, weight, the product name, ingredients, strength, time of ingestion, and the amount swallowed.
-
Poison Control and Emergency Room Expectations: The article stresses the importance of calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) for further instructions. It provides information about what to expect at the emergency room, including the measurement and monitoring of vital signs, blood and urine tests, ECG, intravenous fluids, and medication to treat symptoms.
-
Outlook (Prognosis) for Castor Oil Overdose: Generally, castor oil is expected to cause few problems, and recovery is likely. However, if symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are not controlled, serious complications like dehydration and electrolyte imbalances may occur, potentially causing heart rhythm disturbances.
-
Preventive Measures: The article concludes with a preventive message, advising to keep all chemicals, cleaners, and industrial products in their original containers, marked as poison, and out of the reach of children to reduce the risk of poisoning and overdose.
These concepts provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks, symptoms, and management of castor oil overdose, as highlighted in the article.
