What Is Mineral Oil? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Mineral oil is an over-the-counter lubricant laxative that has been used for decades to relieve occasional constipation. It is colorless, odorless (when cold), and available without a prescription at most pharmacies and grocery stores. Despite being one of the oldest laxatives on the market, it remains a useful option — though its role has narrowed as newer alternatives have emerged.

What Is Mineral Oil?

Mineral oil — also called white mineral oil or liquid petrolatum — is a highly refined, colorless, odorless oil derived from crude petroleum. For medicinal use, the refining process removes aromatic amines and unsaturated hydrocarbons, leaving a purified mixture of saturated hydrocarbons safe for internal use.

As a laxative, it falls under the "lubricant" category — distinct from osmotic laxatives (like MiraLax), stimulant laxatives (like Dulcolax or Senna), and stool softeners (like Colace). It works by coating and lubricating the intestinal walls, making it easier for stool to pass.

What Is Mineral Oil Used For?

Mineral oil is primarily used OTC for:

Occasional constipation (irregularity): The most common use. It relieves occasional constipation and typically produces a bowel movement within 6–8 hours.

Hard, dry stools: Particularly effective when stool is hard and dry — it helps lubricate and retain water in the stool to make it easier to pass.

Post-surgical / post-anal procedure: Mineral oil is especially useful when straining during bowel movements must be avoided — such as after hemorrhoidectomy, anal fissure repair, or other anorectal procedures.

Bowel preparation (rectal enema form): The Fleet Mineral Oil Enema is used for pre-procedure bowel evacuation before surgery, colonoscopy, or radiological procedures.

Available Forms of Mineral Oil

Oral liquid (100%): The most common form for constipation relief. Available as a plain oil or flavored emulsion (Kondremul, Fleet Mineral Oil oral liquid with vanilla flavor).

Rectal enema (118 mL unit dose): Fleet Mineral Oil Enema is a unit-dose rectal enema used for direct rectal evacuation or bowel preparation.

Mineral Oil Dosage: How Much Should I Take?

Always follow the instructions on the product label or your doctor's directions. Standard OTC dosing for oral mineral oil is:

Adults and children 12 years and over: 15–45 mL (1–3 tablespoons) once daily at bedtime

Children 6–11 years: 5–15 mL (1–3 teaspoons) once daily at bedtime

Children under 6: Do not use without consulting a doctor

Important dosing instructions:

Take at bedtime on an empty stomach — not with meals

Take other medications at least 2 hours before or after

Do not lie down immediately after taking it

Use an accurate measuring device — not a household spoon

Do not use for more than 1 week without medical supervision

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Brand Names for Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is sold under several brand names in the U.S.:

Fleet Mineral Oil Oral Laxative (vanilla-flavored oral liquid)

Fleet Mineral Oil Enema (rectal unit dose)

Kondremul Plain (emulsified oral liquid)

Milkinol, Muri-Lube, Liqui Doss (less common brands)

Equate Mineral Oil (Walmart store brand), Up & Up (Target), and CVS Health store brands

Is Mineral Oil Right for Me?

Mineral oil works best for healthy adults and children (6+) who are experiencing occasional constipation with hard, dry stools and who can swallow safely. It is NOT appropriate for elderly, bedridden, or pregnant patients.

If you're ready to buy and want to find which pharmacies near you carry it, medfinder can call local pharmacies and text you the results.

See also: How Does Mineral Oil Work? Mechanism of Action Explained in Plain English