Mineral Oil Enema

What is this medication?

MINERAL OIL (MIN ah rel OIL) treats occasional constipation. It works by softening the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. It belongs to a group of medications called laxatives.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fleet

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool (black or tarry stools) or if you have blood in your vomit
• Stomach or intestinal problems
• An unusual or allergic reaction to mineral oil, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the label. Wash your hands before and after use. Remove tip from enema. Gently insert enema tip into the rectum as directed. Squeeze the enema until the prescribed dose has been given. Gently remove enema tip from the rectum. Throw away any leftover medication in the enema; do not reuse. Do not use more often than directed. Do not use for longer than 1 week without the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be used in young children, they do not receive the full enema dose and precautions do apply. Use only if advised by your care team.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Docusate

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or get worse. Do not use this medication for longer than directed by your care team. This medication can be habit-forming. Long-term use can make your body depend on the laxative for regular bowel movements, damage the bowel, cause malnutrition, and problems with the amounts of water and salts in your body. If your constipation keeps returning, check with your care team.

Drink fluids as directed to prevent dehydration and to assist stool passage.

If stools become loose, or you have diarrhea, discontinue use and consult your care team for advice, if necessary.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Rectal pain, burning, or bleeding after use
• Stomach cramping
• Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.