Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

## Liquid Paraffin ### Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It softens the stool by coating it, preventing water absorption from the colon, and making defecation easier. It is not absorbed systemically. ### Primary Indications * Constipation ### Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-45 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. The specific dose will depend on individual response and local protocols. ### Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** Dosing varies significantly by age and weight. * **Infants < 1 year:** Generally not recommended due to risk of aspiration and systemic absorption. If used, doses are typically very small (e.g., 1-5 mL) under strict medical supervision. * **Children 1-5 years:** 5-15 mL once daily. * **Children 6-12 years:** 10-20 mL once daily. * **Children > 12 years:** As per adult dosing. * **Note:** Pediatric dosing requires careful consideration of aspiration risk. ### Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment as it is not absorbed systemically. ### Contraindications * Ileus * Intestinal obstruction * Acute abdominal pain of unknown origin * Nausea or vomiting * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin * Risk of aspiration (e.g., in patients with swallowing difficulties, infants, elderly, or debilitated patients) ### Adverse Effects * **Common:** Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, anal leakage (especially with higher doses or if taken upright). * **Rare:** Lipid pneumonia (due to aspiration), vitamin malabsorption (if taken concurrently with fat-soluble vitamins), perianal irritation. ### Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can impair their absorption. Advise patients to take vitamins at a different time of day than liquid paraffin. * **Cholestyramine:** May decrease absorption of liquid paraffin. ### Monitoring * Bowel movements (frequency, consistency) * Signs of abdominal discomfort or cramping * Anal leakage or perianal irritation * Signs of aspiration (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) if risk factors are present. ### Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and risk of anal leakage. * Advise patients to take upright to reduce aspiration risk. * Avoid administration immediately before lying down. * Long-term or frequent use should be avoided due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and development of dependence. * Not suitable for patients at risk of aspiration, including infants and those with swallowing difficulties. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and professional guidelines for definitive guidance. Dosing may vary based on specific product formulations and local protocols.