How to Give a Toddler Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is an over-the-counter product that may be used as a laxative to treat constipation. According to AskDrSears.com, constipation results from insufficient water in the digestive tract and poor movement of the rectal muscles. Young children who have experienced passing painful stools may encourage constipation because they wish to avoid further pain. There are several remedies you can try to help your child, including giving mineral oil orally. If your child experiences persistent constipation, call the pediatrician.

Things You'll Need

  • Mineral oil

Instructions

    • 1

      Try other remedies first. Some doctors, such as Dr. Sears, maintain that mineral oil is not the healthiest constipation remedy. Healthy, natural remedies include giving your toddler more water to drink and increasing fiber intake. Offer fiber-dense snacks, such as apples and bran cereal.

    • 2

      If natural remedies do not work, ask your toddler's pediatrician if it is safe to give her mineral oil. In some cases, mineral oil may cause an allergic reaction and rectal bleeding, according to Drugs.com. Give your child mineral oil only if her doctor approves it.

    • 3

      Chill the mineral oil, as recommended by American Family Physician.

    • 4

      Give the appropriate dose to your child, based on her age. American Family Physician recommends a dose of between 15 and 30 mL of mineral oil per year of your child's age. You may divide the total daily dosage into a morning and evening dose. Do not give her mineral oil longer than three or four days.

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