Mineral Oil

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Pronunciation

MIN-ah-rel OIL - Pronunciation guide

Brand Names

  • Improved Hoof Dressing
  • Mineral Oil
  • Mineral Oil 150
  • Mineral Oil 95V
  • Mineral Oil Light

Description

Mineral oil is a liquid petrolatum that has been refined for internal use. Mineral oil acts as a laxative by lubricating fecal material and the intestinal mucosa. It also reduces reabsorption of water from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby increasing fecal bulk and decreasing intestinal transit time.

Some veterinarians prescribe mineral oil to clear sand from the intestinal tract in the case of sand colic. It is suggested that it be mixed with psyllium for the best results.

Usage

Mineral oil is used in horses to treat constipation and fecal impactions, and, in some cases, to treat sand colic. It is sometimes administered after an animal ingests lipid-soluble toxins, such as kerosene or metalaldehyde, to retard the absorption of these toxins through its laxative and solubility properties.

Mineral oil may also be used as a hoof dressing to protect and condition the horse's hooves when recommended by a farrier or veterinarian.

Dosage and Administration

Mineral oil
Method Dosage Concentration Period Duration
As a mild laxative
Oral 10 ml/kg   Daily NA
For colic
Nasogastric tube 3-4 quarts (adult), 0.5 quarts (foal)   Treatment NA

Notes:

  • Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian).
  • Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Granulomatous reactions have occurred in the liver, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes when significant quantities of mineral oil are absorbed from the gut. Oil leakage from the anus may occur. Long-term administration of mineral oil may lead to decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A,D,E, & K).

Precautions

Oil should be administered in appropriate cases, and when tubing is used, care should be taken to make sure that the tube is in the stomach to prevent aspiration into the lungs.

Mineral oil should be given between feedings to keep it from interfering with vitamin absorption.

Interactions

None noted, except for interfering with vitamin absorption.

Overdose

No specific information is given.

Images

Corta-Fix Mineral Oil PelletsCorta-Fix Mineral Oil Pellets

Mineral Oil Light SolutionMineral Oil Light Solution

Literature

 

About the Author

EquiMed Staff

EquiMed staff writers team up to provide articles that require periodic updates based on evolving methods of equine healthcare. Compendia articles, core healthcare topics and more are written and updated as a group effort. Our review process includes an important veterinarian review, helping to assure the content is consistent with the latest understanding from a medical professional.

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