Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

## Liquid Paraffin ### Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil that acts as an emollient and lubricant. It is not absorbed by the body and works by coating the intestinal tract, softening the stool, and facilitating bowel movements. ### Primary Indications Constipation. ### Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-45 mL once daily or in divided doses. Maximum dose not clearly established, but typically kept below 60 mL daily. Use should be intermittent. ### Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** Dosing varies significantly by age and institutional protocol. * **Infants (under 1 year):** 5 mL once daily. * **Children 1-5 years:** 5-10 mL once daily. * **Children 6-12 years:** 10-15 mL once daily. * **Children over 12 years:** As per adult dosing. * **Important:** Use in children should be under medical supervision, and prolonged use is discouraged due to potential risks. ### Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are usually required for renal or hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. ### Contraindications * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Intestinal obstruction. * Difficulty swallowing (risk of aspiration). * Concurrent use with docusate sodium. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. ### Adverse Effects * **Common:** Abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anal leakage/soiling. * **Serious:** Lipoid pneumonia (especially if aspirated, risk increased in infants and debilitated patients), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use). ### Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can decrease absorption, potentially leading to deficiencies with chronic use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Docusate sodium:** Concurrent use can lead to increased absorption of mineral oil, increasing the risk of adverse effects. ### Monitoring * Bowel movements and frequency. * Signs of abdominal pain or distension. * Signs of aspiration (coughing during or after administration). * Long-term: Monitor for signs of vitamin deficiencies if used chronically. ### Clinical Pearls * Primarily used for short-term relief of occasional constipation. * Administer undiluted or mixed with water. For better palatability, some patients may prefer it mixed with juice. * Avoid administration immediately before lying down due to aspiration risk. * Chronic, regular use is not recommended due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and lipoid pneumonia. * Ensure adequate fluid intake when using laxatives. --- *This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the current prescribing information and local protocols for complete and up-to-date guidance before initiating or adjusting therapy.*