Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing defecation. It is not absorbed significantly from the gastrointestinal tract. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily, preferably at bedtime. Higher doses may be used under medical supervision. * **Rectal (as enema):** Varies by product; typically 100-200 mL administered rectally. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * 1-5 years: 5 mL once daily. * 6-12 years: 10 mL once daily. * Dosing for children under 1 year should be under strict medical supervision. * **Rectal (as enema):** Varies by product and age; consult product labeling or local protocol. Generally not recommended for infants without medical guidance. ## Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. ## Contraindications * Appendicitis or symptoms of acute abdominal conditions (e.g., nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain). * Intestinal obstruction. * Fecal impaction. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Use with caution in patients with dysphagia due to risk of aspiration, especially in the elderly or debilitated. ## Adverse Effects * Most common: Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, anal leakage/soiling. * Long-term or high-dose use: * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated). * Vitamin malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K). * Perianal irritation. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Other Laxatives:** Concomitant use may lead to excessive catharsis and electrolyte imbalance. * **Medications Requiring Absorption:** May decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and certain medications (e.g., oral anticoagulants, digoxin, some oral contraceptives) when taken concurrently. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movements and signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance with chronic use or high doses. * Assess for abdominal pain, cramping, or anal leakage. * Consider monitoring fat-soluble vitamin levels in patients on long-term therapy, especially if nutritional status is compromised. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to reduce anal leakage during the day. * Due to the risk of lipoid pneumonia, caution is advised, especially in individuals with impaired gag reflexes or swallowing difficulties. It is generally not recommended for use in infants. * Long-term, regular use of mineral oil laxatives is generally discouraged due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependency. Stimulant laxatives or osmotic agents are often preferred for chronic constipation. * Ensure adequate fluid intake to enhance the laxative effect and prevent dehydration. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult the most current prescribing information and your healthcare provider for any medical decisions.