Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

## Liquid Paraffin ### Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing passage. ### Primary Indications Constipation. ### Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-45 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Doses may vary based on individual response and formulation. ### Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** Dosing is not well-established for children. For children under 12 years, consult a pediatrician or follow specific hospital/local protocols. Some sources suggest 5-10 mL once daily for older children. ### Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are routinely required for renal or hepatic impairment. ### Contraindications * Intestinal obstruction. * Abdominal pain of unknown cause. * Nausea or vomiting. * Allergy to liquid paraffin. * Prolonged use should be avoided as it may interfere with fat-soluble vitamin absorption. ### Adverse Effects * Anal leakage/soiling. * Abdominal cramping. * Nausea. * Lipoid pneumonia (rare, associated with aspiration). * Interference with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). ### Key Drug Interactions * May decrease absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. * May decrease absorption of bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine). * May decrease absorption of certain medications taken orally due to increased gastrointestinal transit time. ### Monitoring * Bowel movements (frequency, consistency). * Signs of anal leakage or soiling. * For prolonged use, monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency. ### Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime anal leakage. * Do not administer to patients in a reclining position to reduce the risk of aspiration. * Avoid concurrent use with mineral oil enemas. * Advise patients to report any abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local guidelines before making any clinical decisions.