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# Liquid Parraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by lubricating the intestinal tract and softening stool.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
* Skin softening and moisturizing (topical use)
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 10-30 mL orally once daily or in divided doses. Maximum dose not clearly established, but higher doses increase aspiration risk.
* **Topical:** Apply thinly to affected skin as needed.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Laxative:**
* 1-5 years: 5 mL orally once daily.
* 6-12 years: 10 mL orally once daily.
* Over 12 years: As per adult dosing.
* **Topical:** As directed by a healthcare provider.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Known hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Patients with difficulty swallowing (risk of aspiration).
* Comatose patients or those with significant reduce consciousness.
* Inflammatory bowel disease.
* Acute abdominal pain of unknown origin, nausea, vomiting, or bowel obstruction.
## Adverse Effects
* **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, anal leakage.
* **Other:** Risk of lipoid pneumonia with chronic aspiration (especially in the elderly or debilitated), especially if taken just before lying down. Skin irritation with topical use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Mineral Oil:** May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and some oral medications taken concurrently. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. It may also enhance the absorption of other stool softeners.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of aspiration or lipoid pneumonia (cough, fever, dyspnea) especially with chronic use or in at-risk populations.
## Clinical Pearls
* Oral administration may lead to anal leakage, so caution and protective pads may be advised.
* Avoid taking immediately before lying down due to aspiration risk.
* Long-term use may lead to dependence and vitamin malabsorption. Consider short-term use only.
* Topical use can leave a greasy residue.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for clinical use and does not replace the need for professional judgment. Always consult the most current prescribing information or official drug compendia for complete and up-to-date details before making any treatment decisions.
