Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin

About Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Osmotic laxatives.

This medicine is used for the temporary relief of constipation, as a faecal lubricant.

Constipation can be caused by a poor diet, not drinking enough water or not going to the toilet as soon as you feel the need to. Pregnancy, a lack of exercise or movement (such as being ill in bed) and some medicines, including some pain killers, can also cause constipation. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the bowel, which softens stools. It also contains a lubricant that makes them easier to pass out of the body.

This medicine is available in oral liquid form.

The brand available is: Mil-Par.

Before Taking Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin

Before taking this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast feeding
• If you are suffering from any nausea, vomiting or stomach pain
• if you suffer from any kind of blockage other than normal constipation
• if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medicine should only be used occasionally. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have to take it regularly or for longer than a week.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than your doctor has told you. If you suspect you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Many people take laxatives when they do not need to, because they believe that they should go to the toilet every day. This is not the case as for many people it is normal not to go every day.
• A well balanced diet containing fibre (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) with 6 to 8 full glasses of water each day and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function. For people who have problems with constipation, food such as pastries, puddings, sugar, sweets, cheese and cake can make matters worse.
• Drinks containing caffeine (tea, coffee, colas) or alcohol can make constipation worse as they have a diuretic effect, which means they cause a loss of fluid from the body, causing dehydration and constipation.

Can Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin cause problems?

This medicine is unlikely to cause any side effects. However you may experience stomach cramps. If you have any worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.

How to store Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 24/02/2005