Liquid%2525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil) ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a non-digestible, highly refined mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It works by coating the stool and intestinal mucosa, preventing water absorption from the colon and easing fecal evacuation. ## Primary Indications * Short-term treatment of occasional constipation. * Fecal impaction (clearing the rectal vault). ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 15–45 mL once daily, preferably at bedtime. * **Maximum:** Do not exceed 45 mL in 24 hours. Limit use to less than 7 days unless directed by a physician. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Ages 6–12 years:** 5–20 mL once daily, preferably at bedtime. * **Under 6 years:** Generally not recommended due to high risk of aspiration pneumonia. * *Note: Dosing should be based on local institutional protocols; confirm with pediatric weight-based guidelines if applicable.* ## Dose Adjustments * **Geriatrics:** Use with extreme caution. Increased risk of aspiration and systemic absorption if used long-term. * **Renal/Hepatic:** No specific dose adjustment defined, but avoid in patients with debilitated states where risk of reflux is high. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to the drug. * Patients with dysphagia, "silent" aspiration, or gastroesophageal reflux (high risk of lipid pneumonia). * Presence of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or signs of bowel obstruction/appendicitis. * Prolonged use in bedridden or elderly patients. ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Anal leakage (seepage) and pruritus ani. * **Serious:** Lipid pneumonia (due to aspiration), decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and potential foreign-body granulomas in the intestinal tract with chronic use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-Soluble Vitamins:** Prolonged use impairs absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K. * **Oral Contraceptives:** May reduce the absorption of oral contraceptives. * **Warfarin:** Theoretical risk of reduced vitamin K absorption, potentially enhancing anticoagulant effects (monitor INR). * **Stool Softeners (Docusate):** Avoid concurrent use; docusate increases the absorption of liquid paraffin, increasing the risk of systemic toxicity. ## Monitoring * Frequency of bowel movements. * Signs of respiratory distress (if aspiration is suspected). * Baseline and periodic weight assessment for the elderly to monitor for malabsorption. ## Clinical Pearls * **Administration:** Administer in an upright position to minimize aspiration risk. Never administer immediately before lying down. * **Not for Routine Use:** Due to the risk of lipid pneumonia and vitamin malabsorption, it is no longer a first-line agent, especially in pediatrics and the elderly. * **Palatability:** Product is often thick and tasteless; consider mixing with chilled fruit juice to improve adherence. *** **Educational Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only. Clinical practice protocols vary by region and institution. Always verify specific dosing, safety precautions, and product labeling with the most current pharmacy references and local prescribing guidelines before administration.