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 facilitating bowel movements.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 10-30 mL once daily at bedtime. Doses may be adjusted based on clinical response, typically up to 45 mL daily.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Constipation:**
* 1-5 years: 5-10 mL once daily at bedtime.
* 6-12 years: 10-15 mL once daily at bedtime.
* Over 12 years: Refer to adult dosing.
* Doses may be adjusted based on clinical response.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are generally required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Abdominal pain of unknown origin.
* Nausea or vomiting.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
* Appendicitis.
* Prophylactic use in patients who are bedridden or have difficulty swallowing, due to risk of lipid aspiration pneumonia.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting.
* Anal leakage (especially with higher doses).
* Lipid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in the elderly or those with impaired gag reflex).
* Pruritus.
* Granuloma formation (rare, with chronic use).
* Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, high-dose use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins:** Long-term use may decrease absorption. Consider separate administration or vitamin supplementation.
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin):** May potentially decrease absorption, leading to reduced efficacy. Monitor INR closely.
* **Cholestyramine:** May bind to liquid paraffin, potentially reducing absorption of both. Separate administration.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance if diarrhea occurs.
* Signs of aspiration or lipid pneumonia, especially in at-risk individuals.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime interference with meals and reduce the risk of anal leakage.
* Encourage adequate fluid intake when using as a laxative.
* Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or impaired gag reflex due to aspiration risk.
* If used chronically, consider monitoring for vitamin deficiencies.
* Not intended for long-term use unless directed by a healthcare professional.
***
*Disclaimer: This information is intended for clinical use and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult the most current prescribing information and professional resources before making any treatment decisions.*
