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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing passage. It is not absorbed by the body.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 15-45 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. A larger dose may be required for initial bowel evacuation.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Dosing varies significantly by age and is best determined by a pediatrician. Generally, lower doses are used for younger children. For example:
* **1-5 years:** 5-10 mL once daily.
* **6-12 years:** 10-20 mL once daily.
* **Over 12 years:** As per adult dosing.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
## Contraindications
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Inability to swallow without risk of aspiration (e.g., certain neurological conditions, elderly).
* Prolonged use, particularly in children, due to potential for vitamin malabsorption.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea, abdominal cramping.
* Anal leakage (especially with higher doses).
* Nausea, vomiting.
* Lipoid pneumonia (rare, but serious, if aspirated).
* Long-term use may lead to dependency or malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption. Administer vitamin supplements at least 2 hours apart from liquid paraffin.
* **Docusate:** Concurrent use may increase absorption of liquid paraffin.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movements (frequency, consistency).
* Signs of abdominal pain or obstruction.
* Signs of vitamin deficiency with prolonged use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize risk of anal leakage during the day.
* Advise patients to remain upright during and after administration to reduce aspiration risk.
* Avoid use in individuals with dysphagia or risk of aspiration.
* Limit duration of use to prevent potential complications.
* Consider alternative laxatives for chronic constipation or in patients at risk of vitamin malabsorption.
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*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and product literature for complete details, including contraindications, warnings, and potential adverse effects, before making any clinical decisions.*
