Mineral Oil & Nutrient Depletion
Also searched as Kondremul Plain. What the clinical evidence reports, what it may mean, and what to discuss with your pharmacist.
Mineral Oil has been associated with depletion of BETA-CAROTENE, PHOSPHATE SALTS, VITAMIN A and VITAMIN D and 3 more. This does not mean a deficiency will occur — it means these are worth knowing about and, if you take Mineral Oil long-term, worth raising with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Take more than one medication? Open the checker with Mineral Oil pre-loaded and add the rest to see overlapping nutrient signals.
Reported nutrient depletions with Mineral Oil
Each record below is shown as published in our licensed clinical database, with its evidence rating and citations. Expand a section for food sources and talking points.
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BETA-CAROTENE
Insignificant DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil is a laxative and reduces absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including beta-carotene. This is not likely to be clinically significant when mineral oil is used for 4 months or less.
Beta-carotene is a plant pigment your body converts into vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Because mineral oil is not digested or absorbed, it can carry fat-soluble nutrients like beta-carotene through the gut before they get a chance to absorb properly. That said, for short-term use of four months or less, this effect is considered insignificant for most people, so a supplement is generally not needed. If you use mineral oil regularly over a longer stretch, it is worth mentioning to your pharmacist just to be safe.
What Vitamin A does & food sources
Vitamin A supports vision, immune function, and skin health.
Common food sources:
- Liver and fish oils
- Dairy and eggs
- Orange and yellow vegetables (as beta-carotene)
- Leafy greens
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Ask your provider before supplementing vitamin A — status testing is not routine, and intake from food plus multivitamins is often already adequate.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Vitamin A is fat-soluble and accumulates; excess is harmful (and dangerous in pregnancy). Prefer food sources unless a clinician advises otherwise.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Avoid high-dose vitamin A in pregnancy or when trying to conceive unless a clinician directs it.
Learn more about this nutrient: Beta-carotene — uses, safety & interactions
References (3)
- Hathcock JN. Metabolic mechanisms of drug-nutrient interactions. Fed Proc 1985;44:124-9.
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
- Clark JH, Russell GJ, Fitzgerald JF, et al. Serum beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol levels during mineral oil therapy for constipation. Am J Dis Child 1987;141:1210-2.
PHOSPHATE SALTS
Insignificant DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil reduces absorption of vitamin D, which normally acts to increase phosphate absorption in the gastrointestinal tract and reabsorption in the kidney tubules. However, occasional or short-term use of mineral oil isn't likely to have a clinically significant effect on phosphate levels.
Phosphate is a mineral your body uses for strong bones, energy production, and keeping cells working properly. Mineral oil can interfere with how your gut absorbs vitamin D, and since vitamin D normally helps your intestines and kidneys hold onto phosphate, there is a theoretical chain that could nudge phosphate levels down. That said, this effect is considered insignificant for most people, especially with occasional use, so there is no reason to worry or reach for a supplement. If you use mineral oil regularly over a long period, it is worth mentioning to your pharmacist just to be sure.
Learn more about this nutrient: Phosphate Salts — uses, safety & interactions
References (2)
- Hardman JG, Limbird LL, Molinoff PB, eds. Goodman and Gillman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1996.
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
VITAMIN A
Insignificant DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil has been reported to reduce absorption of all fat-soluble vitamins. However, there was no change in serum vitamin A levels in children who used mineral oil for up to four months. Mineral oil should not be used on a regular basis due to its side effects; however, its effect on vitamin A levels with occasional use is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Vitamin A is a nutrient your eyes, immune system, and skin depend on, and because it is fat-soluble, it travels through your gut hitched to dietary fat. Mineral oil is not digested or absorbed, so when it moves through the intestines it can carry fat-soluble vitamins along with it and limit how much your body picks up. That said, studies in children who used mineral oil for several months showed no real drop in vitamin A levels, and the overall evidence rates this as insignificant for most people. Since mineral oil is not meant for regular long-term use anyway, occasional use is very unlikely to be a concern, but if you have questions about your situation, your pharmacist or doctor is a great starting point.
What Vitamin A does & food sources
Vitamin A supports vision, immune function, and skin health.
Common food sources:
- Liver and fish oils
- Dairy and eggs
- Orange and yellow vegetables (as beta-carotene)
- Leafy greens
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Ask your provider before supplementing vitamin A — status testing is not routine, and intake from food plus multivitamins is often already adequate.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Vitamin A is fat-soluble and accumulates; excess is harmful (and dangerous in pregnancy). Prefer food sources unless a clinician advises otherwise.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Avoid high-dose vitamin A in pregnancy or when trying to conceive unless a clinician directs it.
Learn more about this nutrient: Vitamin A — uses, safety & interactions
References (3)
- Hathcock JN. Metabolic mechanisms of drug-nutrient interactions. Fed Proc 1985;44:124-9.
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
- Clark JH, Russell GJ, Fitzgerald JF, et al. Serum beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol levels during mineral oil therapy for constipation. Am J Dis Child 1987;141:1210-2.
VITAMIN D
Insignificant DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil can reduce absorption of both vitamin D and calcium. However, occasional or short-term use of mineral oil isn't likely to have a clinically significant effect.
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and keeps your bones and immune system healthy. Because mineral oil is a fat-based laxative, it can coat the gut and carry fat-soluble nutrients like vitamin D out of the body before they are fully absorbed. That said, this is only a real concern with prolonged, regular use, and for most people who take mineral oil occasionally, there is nothing to worry about. If you do use it frequently, it is worth mentioning to your pharmacist or doctor just to be safe.
What Vitamin D does & food sources
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports bone, muscle, and immune health.
Common food sources:
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)
- Fortified milk and cereals
- Egg yolks
- Sunlight exposure (the main natural source)
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
A 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood test is the standard way to assess status — ask whether it is appropriate if you take an associated medication long-term, have limited sun exposure, or have bone concerns.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Vitamin D dosing varies a lot between people; some medications change how vitamin D is processed. Your provider can target a dose to your level instead of guessing.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Vitamin D is fat-soluble and can accumulate — very high doses over time can cause harm, so follow a clinician-guided plan.
Learn more about this nutrient: Vitamin D — uses, safety & interactions
References (1)
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
VITAMIN E
Insignificant DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil reduces absorption of all fat-soluble vitamins including vitamin E. However, serum vitamin E levels didn't change significantly in children who used mineral oil for up to four months. Occasional or short-term use of mineral oil isn't likely to have a clinically significant effect on vitamin E levels.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant your body uses to protect cells and support immune function. Because mineral oil is not digested or absorbed, it can carry fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E through the gut before they get a chance to be taken up. That said, studies in children using mineral oil for several months showed no meaningful drop in vitamin E levels, so this is considered an insignificant concern for most people. If you use mineral oil regularly over a long period, it is worth mentioning to your pharmacist or doctor just to be sure.
What Vitamin E does & food sources
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes.
Common food sources:
- Vegetable oils
- Nuts and seeds
- Wheat germ
- Leafy greens
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Deficiency is rare; ask your provider before supplementing, particularly if you take blood thinners.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Higher-dose vitamin E can increase bleeding tendency, especially with warfarin or antiplatelet medications.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Discuss vitamin E supplements with your provider if you take any blood thinner.
Learn more about this nutrient: Vitamin E — uses, safety & interactions
References (3)
- Hathcock JN. Metabolic mechanisms of drug-nutrient interactions. Fed Proc 1985;44:124-9.
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
- Clark JH, Russell GJ, Fitzgerald JF, et al. Serum beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol levels during mineral oil therapy for constipation. Am J Dis Child 1987;141:1210-2.
CALCIUM
Moderate DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil can interfere with calcium utilization and retention by reducing absorption of both calcium and vitamin D. Advise patients against regular or long-term use of mineral oil.
Calcium keeps your bones strong, your muscles contracting, and your heart rhythm steady, so it is one nutrient worth keeping an eye on. Mineral oil works as a laxative by coating the gut, and that oily coating can trap fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin D, before they are absorbed. Since vitamin D is what helps your body actually take in calcium, less vitamin D means less calcium gets through as well. Because this is rated moderate depletion, regular or long-term use is where the real concern lies, so if mineral oil has become a habit for you, it is worth a conversation with your pharmacist or doctor about whether a supplement makes sense.
What Calcium does & food sources
Calcium builds and maintains bone and is essential for muscle contraction and nerve signaling.
Common food sources:
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Fortified plant milks and juices
- Canned fish with bones (sardines, salmon)
- Leafy greens like kale
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Ask your provider whether bone health monitoring (and vitamin D testing) makes sense with long-term use of an associated medication — a blood calcium level alone does not capture bone calcium status.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of several medications (some antibiotics, thyroid medication, iron) — separate the doses and confirm timing with your pharmacist. Total intake from food plus supplements matters more than supplements alone.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Very high calcium intake has its own risks (kidney stones in susceptible people) — more is not better.
Learn more about this nutrient: Calcium — uses, safety & interactions
References (1)
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
VITAMIN K
Moderate DepletionMINERAL OIL
Mineral oil can reduce absorption of fat-soluble vitamins including vitamin K. Chronic use, both daily and intermittently, has been associated with prolonged clotting times. Advise patients against regular or long-term use of mineral oil.
Vitamin K is what your body uses to form blood clots and keep bones healthy, and mineral oil can quietly work against it. Because mineral oil is a fat-based laxative, it coats the gut and carries fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K out of the body before they can be absorbed. With regular or long-term use, this is a real concern: lower vitamin K levels can slow down your blood's ability to clot properly. If you use mineral oil more than occasionally, it is worth bringing up with your pharmacist or doctor to find out whether your levels should be checked.
What Vitamin K does & food sources
Vitamin K is required for normal blood clotting and contributes to bone health.
Common food sources:
- Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli)
- Vegetable oils
- Fermented foods like natto
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
If you take warfarin, vitamin K intake is a central part of your therapy — consistency matters more than avoidance. Discuss any planned change in vitamin K intake (diet or supplements) with the clinic that manages your INR.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Never start or stop a vitamin K supplement on your own if you take warfarin — it directly changes how the medication works.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Vitamin K interacts with warfarin: keep intake consistent and involve your anticoagulation clinic in any change.
Learn more about this nutrient: Vitamin K — uses, safety & interactions
References (1)
- Becker GL. The case against mineral oil. Am J Digestive Dis 1952;19:344-8. PubMed
This tool is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. An association is not a diagnosis and does not mean a deficiency will occur. Always talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or supplement.
Disclaimer: This checker finds which nutrients might be depleted by prescription or over-the-counter medications. Each nutrient depletion issue is rated based on clinical significance. Use your own professional judgment prior to making clinical decisions.© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center Licensed records refresh weekly · last updated July 3, 2026.
More about Mineral Oil
What drug-induced nutrient depletion means
Some medications can, over time, lower the levels of certain vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients — through reduced absorption, increased loss, or changes in how the body uses them.
Association is not deficiency
An entry here means a depletion has been reported or studied — not that it happens to everyone, or that you are deficient. Dose, duration, diet, and your own health all matter.
Evidence varies by pair
Some drug–nutrient links (like metformin and vitamin B12) are well studied; others rest on limited or preliminary research. Each entry shows the evidence rating from our licensed clinical database.
When to ask about labs
If you take an associated medication long-term, ask your healthcare provider whether monitoring is appropriate for you. Not everyone needs testing — your provider can weigh your dose, duration, and symptoms.
Don't self-supplement blindly
Supplements are not risk-free: some can interact with medications, and some (like potassium or magnesium) can be risky with kidney disease. Talk to your pharmacist before adding anything.
Never stop a medication over this
These medications are prescribed for good reasons, and the benefit usually far outweighs a manageable nutrient consideration. Any change belongs in a conversation with your prescriber.
Food first, usually
For many nutrients, a varied diet covers the gap. Each entry lists common food sources; a supplement is a decision to make with your pharmacist or provider, not a default.
Mineral Oil & nutrients: FAQs
Does Mineral Oil deplete BETA-CAROTENE?
Should I take a supplement because I take Mineral Oil?
Should I stop taking Mineral Oil?
Where does this information come from?
Questions about Mineral Oil and your nutrition?
Ask a licensed pharmacist — free, no appointment needed.
Sources & How We Checked
Nutrient depletion records for Mineral Oil are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database, and are displayed as published with their citations.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference for drug-induced nutrient depletions, supplements, and interactions — the basis for this page.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine — NIH consumer drug information, used for medication overviews across the site.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.