.
Mineral oil is a laxative used to soften stools in people with constipation. Mineral oil is also used as a vehicle to carry other ingredients in some topical skin products.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Vitamins and minerals
Mineral oil has interfered with the absorption of many nutrients, including beta-carotene, calcium,
phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins A, D, K, and E in some,1
but not all,2 research. Taking mineral oil on an empty stomach may reduce this
interference. It makes sense to take a daily
multivitamin-mineral supplement two hours before or after mineral oil. It is important to
read labels, because many multivitamins do not contain vitamin K or contain inadequate (less
than 100 mcg per day) amounts.
Summary of Interactions for Mineral Oil
| Depletion or interference |
Beta-carotene Calcium* Phosphorus* Potassium* Vitamin A* Vitamin D* Vitamin E* Vitamin K* |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Holt GA. Food & Drug Interactions. Chicago: Precept Press, 1998, 176.
2. Clark JH, Russell GJ, Fitzgerald JF, Nagamori KE. Serum beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol levels during mineral oil therapy for constipation. Am J Dis Child 1987;141:1210–2.
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The information presented in VitaminLore is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.