Fleet Mineral Oil Enema (Mineral Oil Enema Rectal)

Description

Indications

Mineral oil enema can be utilized to alleviate occasional constipation. However, when addressing constipation, you should prioritize gentler products like stool softeners or bulk-forming laxatives whenever possible. Your doctor might also prescribe this product, often in combination with other products, to clear stool from the intestines before surgery or specific bowel procedures such as colonoscopy or radiography. Typically, this medication induces a bowel movement within 1 to 5 minutes.

Uses and Dosage

This product is intended for rectal use only. Adhere to all instructions provided on the product package.

Given the potential for large or watery bowel movements, ensure adequate intake of clear liquids to prevent dehydration.

Before and after using this product, wash your hands thoroughly. Remove the protective shield from the enema. Position yourself on your left side with a bent knee, or if preferred, kneel and lower your head and chest forward until the left side of your face rests on a flat surface with your left arm comfortably folded. Gently insert the enema tip into the rectum with steady pressure and a slight side-to-side motion, aiming towards the navel. Avoid forcing the tip to prevent injury. Squeeze the bottle until the recommended amount of the drug is inside the rectum. It’s unnecessary to empty the bottle completely as it contains more liquid than needed. Withdraw the bottle tip from the rectum and remain in position for 1 to 5 minutes until a strong urge to have a bowel movement is felt.

If directed by your doctor to use this product before surgery or a bowel procedure, adhere closely to their instructions regarding timing. After using the medication, consume plenty of clear liquids as instructed by your doctor to prevent serious side effects such as kidney problems or dehydration. Discuss suitable liquid options with your doctor before your procedure.

Dosage is determined by your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage, frequency (not more than once in 24 hours), or duration of use (not more than 3 days) unless directed by your doctor.

Avoid using other laxative products simultaneously unless instructed by your doctor, as it may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Regular use of this medication may lead to laxative dependence, particularly with prolonged usage. In such instances, normal bowel function may be impaired, resulting in persistent constipation. For occasional constipation, bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium) or stool softeners (e.g., docusate) are often safer options. Consult your doctor if you require prolonged use of this medication or other laxatives for more than 7 days to prevent laxative dependence.

Inform your doctor promptly if the enema tip causes rectal bleeding or pain, if a bowel movement does not occur within 30 minutes of using the product, if symptoms of dehydration arise (refer to the Side Effects section), or if you suspect a serious medical issue.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• lipid pneumonitis if ingested in reclined body position
• fecal incontinence
• intestinal malabsorption
• impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• rectal discharge of mineral oil
• anal itching and irritation
• abdominal cramps
• nausea
• vomiting

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• difficulty breathing
• persistent cough
• no bowel movement after use
• rectal bleeding
• blood in your stools
• severe and worsening stomach pain, cramping, or bloating

Caution

• Before using sodium phosphate, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, particularly to sodium phosphate or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of dehydration, abnormal levels of certain minerals in the blood, kidney disease, ongoing stomach or abdominal symptoms, bowel issues, recent use of laxatives for constipation within the past week, heart disease, liver disease, or if you’re following a sodium-restricted diet.
• Consult your doctor before using this product if you’ve experienced a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks or if you require daily use of a laxative for more than 1 week, as these could indicate a serious medical condition.
• Young children may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly dehydration and kidney problems.
• Likewise, older adults may also be more prone to the side effects of this medication, especially dehydration and kidney issues.
• During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It’s unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Fleet Mineral Oil Enema is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Fleet Mineral Oil Enema liquid:
  • 100 %

FAQ

How long does Fleet Mineral Oil Enema take to work?

Fleet Mineral Oil Enema typically causes you to have a bowel movement in 2 to 15 minutes.

Is Fleet Mineral Oil Enema a stool softener?

While Fleet Mineral Oil Enema isn’t classified as a stool softener, it can help soften your stool by drawing water into your gut.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/saline-laxative/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/mineral-oil#drug-side-effects
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20248-mineral-oil-enema
4. https://www.rxlist.com/mineral_oil_rectal/generic-drug.htm
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14831/fleet-enema-rectal/details
6. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/fleet-mineral-oil-enema-rectal.html#:~:text=Fleet%20Mineral%20Oil%20Enema%20is,is%20used%20to%20treat%20constipation