Please check your internet connection and try again.
# 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.
## Primary Indications
* **Laxative:** For the relief of occasional constipation.
* **Emollient:** For external use to soften and moisturize the skin.
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 5-15 mL once daily, or as prescribed. Doses are typically taken at bedtime.
* **Emollient:** Apply externally as needed.
## Pediatric Dosing
**Constipation:** Dosing is weight-based and age-dependent and requires careful consideration due to potential aspiration risks and absorption. Consult specific pediatric guidelines or a specialist. Recommended starting doses are generally lower than adult doses, often in the range of 2.5-5 mL once daily for younger children, with gradual upward titration if needed and tolerated. Max daily dose should not exceed adult maximum without specialist consultation.
## Dose Adjustments
* **Renal Impairment:** No dose adjustment typically required for laxative use.
* **Hepatic Impairment:** No dose adjustment typically required for laxative use.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Patients with dysphagia, gastrointestinal obstruction, or paralytic ileus.
* Inhalation or aspiration risk (e.g., infants, elderly, those with impaired gag reflex) due to risk of lipoid pneumonia.
* Use with caution in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
## Adverse Effects
* **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, anal leakage (particularly with higher doses or if taken improperly).
* **Rare:** Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic, high-dose use).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Long-term, regular use may decrease absorption. Advise administration of vitamins at least 2 hours apart from liquid paraffin.
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin):** Potential for reduced absorption of anticoagulants, although the clinical significance is debated. Monitor INR closely.
* **Docusate:** Concurrent use may increase the risk of anal leakage.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if diarrhea occurs.
* Assess for adverse effects such as abdominal pain or anal leakage.
* For chronic use, consider monitoring nutritional status and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer undiluted, but patients may find it more palatable mixed with water or juice.
* Taking dose at bedtime may reduce the likelihood of waking during the night due to bowel stimulation.
* Advise patients to separate administration from fat-soluble vitamin supplements and oral medications to optimize absorption.
* Emphasize the importance of avoiding aspiration; do not administer to patients at high risk without extreme caution and appropriate supervision.
* Dosing frequency and duration should be based on individual response and clinical judgment, generally for short-term use.
***
*Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines for definitive guidance.*
