Kondemull is somewhat better tasting, but is more expensive. Start one tablespoon of mineral oil for each 10 lb. of the child's weight. This should be given prior to bedtime. The dose may be divided, and half given in the morning and half at night if desired. The dose is increased by one or two tablespoons a day until the child is having four to five large loose stools per day but without leakage of mineral oil.
Some children respond well to lower doses, but sometimes several ounces a day are needed.
Keep the mineral oil in the refrigerator because it tastes best cold. Have your child take it with fruit juice to disguise the flavor, or follow it with something tasty. Since mineral oil may slightly interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, give him a multivitamin tablet each afternoon. Encourage a nonconstipating diet, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and plenty of high fiber foods. For more information on diet, ask your doctor for an instruction sheet on diet for constipation.