Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil) ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by lubricating the stool and the intestinal wall, softening the stool and facilitating its passage. ## Primary Indications * **Laxative:** Treatment of constipation. * **Emollient:** Topical use for dry skin conditions. ## Adult Dosing * **Constipation:** 10-45 mL orally once daily, typically at bedtime. Do not lie down immediately after administration. * **Emollient:** Apply a thin layer to affected skin areas as needed. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Constipation:** * 2-5 years: 5-10 mL orally once daily. * 5-12 years: 10-15 mL orally once daily. * Over 12 years: 10-45 mL orally once daily. * **Note:** Use in children under 12 years should be under medical supervision. Oral administration is not recommended for infants due to risk of aspiration. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required based on renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Intestinal obstruction. * Appendicitis or acute abdominal pain. * Prophylaxis against fecal impaction in patients with reduced consciousness or risk of aspiration (oral use). * Children under 2 years of age (oral use, high risk of aspiration). ## Adverse Effects * **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anal leakage, abdominal distension. * **Aspiration Pneumonitis:** Particularly with oral use in prone individuals or if not administered correctly. * **Fat-Soluble Vitamin Malabsorption:** With chronic, high-dose use due to interference with absorption. * **Lipoid Pneumonia:** Rare but serious with chronic aspiration of mineral oil. * **Topical:** Skin irritation, rash. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Reduced absorption with chronic oral use. * **Docusate Sodium:** Concurrent use may increase absorption of mineral oil, potentially leading to adverse effects. ## Monitoring * Monitor for effectiveness in relieving constipation. * Assess for abdominal distension, cramping, and anal leakage. * Evaluate for signs of aspiration if administered to at-risk individuals. * Monitor for signs of malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins with long-term use. ## Clinical Pearls * Oral liquid paraffin should be taken at bedtime and the patient should not lie down for at least 30 minutes afterward to minimize the risk of aspiration. * It is not for chronic use due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependence. * Avoid use in patients at risk of aspiration, especially infants, the elderly, and those with dysphagia or impaired gag reflexes. * Topical use can be effective for dry skin but may leave a greasy residue. Apply sparingly. *** *Disclaimer: Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant literature for definitive guidance. This information is intended for healthcare professionals and does not replace professional judgment.*