Usage
- Light mineral oil is primarily used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation. It can also be used to soften earwax. It lubricates the stool and the intestinal walls, facilitating easier passage of bowel movements.
- Pharmacological classification: Laxative (lubricant type).
- Mechanism of Action: Light mineral oil works by lubricating the stool and the intestinal walls. It is not absorbed by the body and thus increases the water content in the stool by preventing colonic absorption of fecal water, making it softer and easier to pass.
Alternate Names
- Liquid paraffin
- White mineral oil
- Liquid petroleum
- Paraffin oil
How It Works
- Pharmacodynamics: Light mineral oil softens the stool by retaining water and lubricates the intestinal tract. It has no direct effect on bowel motility. It acts locally in the intestinal lumen and is not absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Pharmacokinetics: Light mineral oil is minimally absorbed after oral administration. It is not metabolized and is excreted unchanged in the feces.
- Mode of Action: Light mineral oil acts physically by coating the stool and the intestinal wall. There is no chemical interaction with receptors, enzymes, or neurotransmitters.
- Elimination Pathways: Excreted unchanged primarily through feces. A tiny amount may be absorbed and eliminated by the liver, though it is not metabolized.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
- 15-45 mL orally per day, either as a single dose or divided into multiple doses. The dose can be adjusted based on individual response.
Children:
- Children under 6 years: 5-15 mL/day, divided into doses. Do not exceed 240ml per day.
- Children 6-12 years: 5-15 mL per day, single or divided doses.
- Children over 12 years: 15-45 mL orally per day, single or divided doses.
- Pediatric safety: Use with caution in young children and ensure accurate dosing to avoid aspiration. Do not administer to infants.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients: Start with a lower dose and adjust as needed based on response and tolerance. Monitor for potential dehydration.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: No specific dose adjustment is generally needed.
- Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: No specific dose adjustment is generally needed.
- Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Use with caution in patients with swallowing difficulties or gastrointestinal disorders.
Clinical Use Cases
Light mineral oil is typically not used in clinical settings like intubation, surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, ICU use, or emergency situations. Its primary use is for the relief of occasional constipation.
Dosage Adjustments
Adjustments may be required on an individual basis depending on the patient’s response and tolerance.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anal itching
- Rectal leakage of oil
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Lipid pneumonia (from aspiration)
- Impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use
Long-Term Effects
- Dependence on laxatives with chronic use.
- Vitamin deficiencies
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Contraindications
- Appendicitis
- Intestinal obstruction
- Fecal impaction
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain of unknown origin
Drug Interactions
- May decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), oral contraceptives, and some medications like docusate.
- Consult a healthcare provider to assess the potential interactions if the patient is taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Consult with a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy. Generally considered safe for short-term use. Prolonged use may interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare professional before use while breastfeeding. It is unknown whether light mineral oil passes into breast milk.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Lubricates stool and intestines, preventing water absorption from the colon.
- Side Effects: Abdominal cramps, nausea, anal leakage, vitamin deficiencies with prolonged use.
- Contraindications: Appendicitis, bowel obstruction, fecal impaction, swallowing difficulties.
- Drug Interactions: May impair the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and some medications.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
- Dosage: Adults: 15-45 mL/day; Children: dose varies by age; Elderly: start with lower dose.
- Monitoring Parameters: Bowel movement frequency and consistency, signs of vitamin deficiency.
Popular Combinations
Light mineral oil is not typically used in combination with other drugs.
Precautions
- General Precautions: Do not use if experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
- Specific Populations: Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in elderly or pediatric populations.
- Lifestyle Considerations: Maintain adequate hydration.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Light mineral oil?
A: Adults: 15-45 mL/day. Children: dosage varies with age. See detailed dosage section above.
Q2: How does Light mineral oil work?
A: It acts as a lubricant laxative, coating the stool and intestinal walls to prevent water absorption from the colon, thereby softening the stool.
Q3: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects may include abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, anal itching, and rectal leakage of oil.
Q4: Who should not take Light mineral oil?
A: Patients with appendicitis, bowel obstruction, fecal impaction, or difficulty swallowing should not take light mineral oil.
Q5: Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use light mineral oil?
A: Consult with a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Q6: Are there any drug interactions with Light mineral oil?
A: It can potentially decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and some medications. Consult a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications.
Q7: Can Light mineral oil be used long-term?
A: Long-term use is generally not recommended as it may lead to dependence on laxatives and potential vitamin deficiencies.
Q8: What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Q9: What happens in case of an overdose?
A: Seek immediate medical attention. While overdose is rare, excessive intake can lead to severe diarrhea, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.
