Liquid%25252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It works by softening the stool and lubricating the intestinal tract, making it easier to pass. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. * Some sources suggest up to 40 mL daily. Specific dosing may depend on local protocols. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * 1-5 years: 2.5-5 mL once daily. * 5-10 years: 5-10 mL once daily. * Over 10 years: As per adult dosing. * Consult specific pediatric guidelines or local protocols for precise dosing. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are generally required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal conditions. * Intestinal obstruction. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Routine, long-term use is generally not recommended due to potential for vitamin malabsorption. ## Adverse Effects * Diarrhea * Abdominal cramping * Nausea * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses or improper administration) * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in the elderly or those with impaired gag reflex) * Malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** May impair absorption with chronic use. Consider separating administration or monitoring vitamin levels. * **Cholestyramine:** May enhance the absorption of liquid paraffin. ## Monitoring * Bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Signs of electrolyte imbalance if diarrhea occurs. * In patients with chronic use, consider monitoring for vitamin deficiencies. * Monitor for signs of aspiration or respiratory distress, especially in at-risk populations. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer undiluted. * Avoid administration immediately before lying down to reduce the risk of aspiration. * Use with caution in the elderly or those with dysphagia or impaired gag reflex due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. * Long-term use can lead to dependence and decreased bowel motility. * May cause "runny" stools or anal leakage; reducing the dose may alleviate this. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for clinical use and does not replace the need to consult the most current prescribing information and institutional protocols. Always verify drug information before administration.*