Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

## Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil) ### Overview Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It acts as a lubricant in the gastrointestinal tract, softening stool and easing defecation. ### Primary Indications * **Constipation:** Relief of occasional constipation. * **Skin Conditions:** Topical application for dry skin, eczema, and psoriasis as an emollient. ### Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 15-45 mL once daily, usually taken at bedtime. Dosing may be adjusted based on response. Some sources suggest up to 30 mL twice daily for severe constipation, but this is less common and requires careful monitoring. * **Emollient (Topical):** Apply liberally to affected skin areas as needed. ### Pediatric Dosing * **Laxative:** * **1-6 years:** 5-15 mL once daily at bedtime. * **6-12 years:** 10-20 mL once daily at bedtime. * **Over 12 years:** Same as adult dosing. * **Emollient (Topical):** Apply liberally to affected skin areas as needed. Use with caution in infants due to potential for increased absorption and adverse effects. ### Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment when used as a laxative, given its minimal systemic absorption. However, caution is advised in elderly patients or those with dysphagia. ### Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Patients with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) due to risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. * Prolonged use, especially in children, due to potential for anal leakage and impaired vitamin absorption. ### Adverse Effects * **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anal leakage, perianal irritation. * **Aspiration:** Lipoid pneumonia (rare but serious, especially if aspirated into the lungs). * **Nutritional:** Impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use. * **Topical:** Greasiness, potential for acneiform eruptions. ### Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption with chronic oral use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Other laxatives:** Increased risk of diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance. * **Docusate:** May increase absorption of mineral oil. ### Monitoring * Bowel movements, frequency, and consistency. * Signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation. * For chronic use, consider monitoring for fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. * For topical use, monitor skin for improvement and any signs of irritation. ### Clinical Pearls * Liquid paraffin is a lubricant laxative, not a stimulant. It works by coating the stool and intestinal wall. * Best taken at bedtime to minimize disruption and allow for overnight action. * Avoid administration with meals or hot liquids, as this can increase the risk of aspiration. * Prolonged or excessive use should be avoided, particularly in children. * Topical application should be done cautiously in infants and on large surface areas. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for clinical use and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always verify current prescribing information, including specific indications, contraindications, warnings, and adverse effects, from an official drug compendium or the manufacturer's product information before making clinical decisions.