Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing defecation. ## Primary Indications Constipation. ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. * **Emollient:** Applied topically to the skin as needed. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Constipation:** * **1-5 years:** 2.5 mL to 10 mL once daily. * **6-12 years:** 5 mL to 15 mL once daily. * **Over 12 years:** Same as adult dosing. * **Note:** Dosing for infants under 1 year is generally not recommended and should be determined by a pediatrician. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically necessary for hepatic or renal impairment. ## Contraindications * Abdominal pain of unknown origin. * Nausea or vomiting. * Intestinal obstruction. * Appendicitis. * Fecal impaction. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Children under 6 months of age (oral use). ## Adverse Effects * Diarrhea * Abdominal cramps * Nausea * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses) * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in the elderly or those with impaired swallowing) * Pruritus (with topical use) * Contact dermatitis (with topical use) ## Key Drug Interactions * **Mineral Oil Reduces Absorption of Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Long-term use may necessitate vitamin supplementation. * **Mineral Oil Reduces Absorption of Other Oral Medications:** Concurrent administration should be avoided. Separate doses by at least 2 hours. * **Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin):** Liquid paraffin may decrease the absorption of vitamin K, potentially increasing the effect of anticoagulants. Monitor INR closely. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements and stool consistency. * Signs of abdominal pain or distension. * Electrolyte balance with prolonged or excessive use. * Skin condition with topical application. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and potential for anal leakage. * Do not administer to patients lying down or who have difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. * Advise patients that anal leakage can occur, especially with higher doses, and suggest using a protective pad. * Topical application can help moisturize dry skin and protect it from irritation. * Limit duration of use for constipation to avoid dependence. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals and is not a substitute for comprehensive prescribing information. Always consult the most current drug monograph and relevant clinical guidelines before making treatment decisions.