Cremaffin
Cremaffin is a syrup made by Abbott that contains Liquid paraffin + Magnesium hydroxide. It combines Liquid paraffin: lubricant laxative and Magnesium hydroxide: antacid and laxative.
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Liquid paraffin | see pack |
| Magnesium hydroxide | see pack |
Liquid paraffin
What it is used for
Softens and lubricates stools to relieve constipation.
How it works
A mineral oil that coats and softens stool so it passes more easily.
How to take it
Take as directed, not just before lying down. Not for regular long-term use.
Common side effects
- Oily leakage from the back passage
- Itching around the anus
Get medical help straight away if
Coughing or breathing trouble after a dose (oil can be breathed in)
Be careful
Not for long-term use; avoid lying down right after taking it.
Other medicines and interactions
Long use reduces absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in pregnancy; other laxatives are preferred.
Magnesium hydroxide
What it is used for
Neutralises acid; in larger amounts it softens stools.
How it works
An antacid that neutralises acid; in larger doses it draws water into the bowel and works as a laxative (milk of magnesia).
How to take it
As an antacid, after meals and at bedtime. As a laxative, 30 to 45 ml at bedtime with water. Keep 2 hours apart from other medicines.
Common side effects
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps
Get medical help straight away if
Muscle weakness, slow heartbeat or drowsiness (too much magnesium, especially with kidney disease)
Be careful
Can cause loose motions; caution with kidney disease.
Other medicines and interactions
Reduces absorption of iron, ciprofloxacin, tetracyclines, levothyroxine and some other medicines; separate doses by at least 2 hours.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Short-term use is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common questions
What is Cremaffin?
Cremaffin is a syrup by Abbott containing Liquid paraffin + Magnesium hydroxide.
What is Cremaffin used for?
Softens and lubricates stools to relieve constipation. Neutralises acid; in larger amounts it softens stools.
How should I take Cremaffin?
Take as directed, not just before lying down. Not for regular long-term use. As an antacid, after meals and at bedtime. As a laxative, 30 to 45 ml at bedtime with water. Keep 2 hours apart from other medicines. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Cremaffin?
Common side effects include: Oily leakage from the back passage, itching around the anus, Diarrhoea, stomach cramps. Get medical help straight away for: Coughing or breathing trouble after a dose (oil can be breathed in), Muscle weakness, slow heartbeat or drowsiness (too much magnesium, especially with kidney disease).
Does Cremaffin need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Cremaffin in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Avoid in pregnancy; other laxatives are preferred. Short-term use is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What are the substitutes for Cremaffin?
We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.
Sources and further reading
- Liquid paraffin: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Magnesium hydroxide: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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