Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening the stool and facilitating its passage. It is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. The dose may be adjusted based on individual response. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Children 1-5 years:** 2.5 mL to 5 mL once daily. * **Children 6-12 years:** 5 mL to 15 mL once daily. * **Children over 12 years:** Dosing as per adults. * **Infants under 1 year:** Generally not recommended due to risk of aspiration and adverse effects. If used, requires strict medical supervision. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required based on hepatic or renal impairment, as it is not absorbed systemically. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of appendicitis or intestinal obstruction. * Fecal impaction. * Difficulty swallowing (risk of aspiration). ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses or impaired sphincter control). * Abdominal cramping or discomfort. * Nausea. * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in the elderly, debilitated, or those with impaired swallowing). * Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (with chronic, prolonged use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** May reduce absorption with concurrent, prolonged use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Other medications:** May delay absorption of other orally administered drugs. ## Monitoring * Bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Signs of anal leakage or soiling. * For signs of aspiration, particularly in at-risk populations. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer with water or other fluids to improve palatability and reduce the risk of aspiration. * Avoid administration close to bedtime in individuals with impaired swallowing or sphincter control to minimize anal leakage. * Not intended for long-term daily use; short-term management of constipation is preferred. * Ensure the patient can swallow safely to prevent aspiration. --- *Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines for complete details and to verify dosages and safety information before making any treatment decisions.*