MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Liquid Paraffin: uses, side effects & brands
Liquid paraffin softens stool to ease constipation, used short-term. It belongs to the Laxative & bowel (IBD) medicine group. These relieve constipation or treat inflammatory bowel disease.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Laxative & bowel (IBD) medicine |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Short-term relief of constipation
- Softens and lubricates stool to make it easier to pass
- Sometimes used where straining should be avoided, such as with piles or after surgery
Common brand names
- India: Cremaffin (combo), Milk of Magnesia (combo)
- Worldwide: (mineral oil laxatives)
Common side effects
- Leakage of oily stool from the back passage
- Itching around the anus
- Tummy discomfort
- Reduced absorption of some vitamins with long use
Before taking it — precautions
- Do not take lying down or just before bed, as it can be breathed into the lungs
- Avoid in young children, the elderly bedbound, and people with swallowing difficulty
- Not for long-term use; ask before use in pregnancy
When to see a doctor urgently
- Cough, breathlessness or fever after taking it (urgent)
- Severe tummy pain or vomiting (urgent)
- Bleeding from the back passage
Frequently asked questions
Why is liquid paraffin not used much now?
Because it can be accidentally inhaled into the lungs and can reduce vitamin absorption, gentler laxatives are usually preferred.
Can children take it?
It is generally avoided in young children because of the risk of breathing it into the lungs.
Why does oil leak from the back passage?
The oil passes through unabsorbed, so leakage can happen, especially with larger amounts.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.