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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by lubricating the intestinal tract, softening the stool, and easing its passage.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 10-45 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Higher doses may be used for fecal impaction.
* **Emollient:** Apply topically as needed.
## Pediatric Dosing
Dosing in children should be guided by clinical judgment and local protocols. Generally, lower doses are used compared to adults.
* **Laxative (Children > 6 years):** 5-15 mL once daily.
* **Laxative (Children 1-6 years):** 5 mL once daily.
* **Laxative (Infants < 1 year):** Dosing is generally not recommended unless under strict medical supervision due to risk of aspiration. Consult with a pediatrician.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Difficulty swallowing (due to risk of lipid aspiration pneumonia, especially in infants and the elderly).
## Adverse Effects
* Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea.
* Anal leakage (particularly with higher doses).
* Lipid pneumonia (rare but serious, especially with chronic use or aspiration).
* Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, long-term use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins:** Reduced absorption may occur with concurrent use. Separate administration.
* **Anionic surfactants (e.g., docusate):** May reduce the effectiveness of liquid paraffin.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movements (frequency and consistency).
* Signs of anal leakage or leakage.
* For chronic use, monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize anal leakage and avoid disrupting meals.
* Do not administer lying down or immediately before lying down due to aspiration risk.
* Avoid concurrent use with other oils or medications that may increase absorption risk.
* Not intended for long-term daily use without medical supervision.
* Use with caution in the elderly and very young children.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant guidelines for complete details, as drug information can change. Verification with current local protocols and individual patient factors is essential before prescribing.
