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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It softens stool by coating and preventing reabsorption of water from the fecal matter in the intestine.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-45 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. The dose can be adjusted based on patient response.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Dosing is age-dependent and often requires specific product formulation guidance. Consult product labeling for specific age ranges and doses.
* Generally, for children **under 1 year**: 1-5 mL once daily.
* For children **1-5 years**: 5-10 mL once daily.
* For children **6-12 years**: 10-15 mL once daily.
* Dosing above 12 years typically follows adult recommendations.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are generally required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Appendicitis or symptoms of acute abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort of unknown etiology.
* Fecal impaction.
* Inability to swallow without aspiration risk (e.g., in infants, elderly, or debilitated patients).
## Adverse Effects
* Anal leakage/soiling.
* Abdominal cramping.
* Nausea.
* Vomiting.
* Diarrhea.
* Lipoid pneumonia (rare, associated with chronic aspiration, particularly in infants or elderly).
* Interference with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* May decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
* May decrease the absorption of other concomitantly administered oral medications, especially those with a narrow therapeutic index. Consider administering at least 2 hours apart from other medications.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of abdominal pain or distension.
* Signs of aspiration (e.g., cough, respiratory distress).
* Signs of malabsorption or vitamin deficiency with chronic use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer undiluted.
* Avoid taking immediately before lying down to reduce the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia.
* Use with caution in infants, young children, the elderly, and debilitated patients due to the risk of aspiration.
* Long-term or excessive use can lead to dependence, vitamin deficiencies, and anal leakage.
* Shake well before use.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines before making any treatment decisions. Dosing and recommendations may vary based on individual patient factors, local protocols, and regulatory approvals.
