Prospective, randomized comparison of castor oil and sodium phosphate preparation for barium enema

To compare castor oil and sodium phosphate preparation (Swiff) in patients' satisfaction, efficacy for colon cleanness, side effects, and prices.

One hundred patients referred for barium enema were randomized to receive castor oil (n = 50) and sodium phosphate preparation (n = 50). They graded their satisfaction using a 5-point scale (easy, acceptable, slightly difficult, extremely difficult, and unacceptable). The efficacy for colon cleanness was graded by two radiologists using a 5-point scale (excellent, easy for evaluation, acceptable, difficult for evaluation, and unacceptable). Side effects were evaluated by patients' vital signs, total number of bowel frequency, and 10 associated symptoms.

Both preparations revealed no difference in patients' satisfaction (p = 0.882) and efficacy of colon cleanness (p = 0.130). Sodium phosphate preparation was more expensive (79 vs. 10 Baht) and caused higher number of bowel frequency (p < 0.001).

With a cheaper price, castor oil was comparable with sodium phosphate preparation in patients' satisfaction and efficacy of colon cleanness.