Name: Castor Oil
Class: Laxative (Contact Cathartic)
Mechanism: Broken down in small intest. to ricinoleic acid (anionic surfactant) ® gut irritation ® peristalsis. ¯ small intest. absorption of electrolytes and water, speed of transit through GI tract. Effective in as little as 2 hr.
Absorption:
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Must not be used chronically ® ¯ nutrient absorption. Violent uterine and abdominal cramping.
Utility: Laxative
Special Features: Contact cathartics are most commonly involved in prolonged cathartic abuse. Should never be used > 1 wk of regular therapy. Not recommended for initial therapy.