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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by coating the stool, making it softer and easier to pass, and also lubricates the intestinal walls.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10 mL to 40 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. The specific dose depends on the severity of constipation and local protocols. Do not exceed the dose recommended by a healthcare professional.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Dosing for children should be guided by a pediatrician. Generally, lower doses are used for younger children. For example, doses may range from 5 mL to 15 mL once daily depending on age and weight, but this is not universally established and requires medical guidance.
## Dose Adjustments
* No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Gastrointestinal obstruction
* Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain of unknown origin
* Patients with difficulty swallowing (risk of aspiration)
* Concurrent use with docusate sodium
* Prolonged use, especially in children, due to risk of vitamin malabsorption.
## Adverse Effects
* Anal leakage/soiling
* Abdominal cramping
* Nausea
* Diarrhea
* Risk of lipoid pneumonia if aspirated (especially in infants and the elderly, or if taken in a supine position).
* Vitamin malabsorption (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Docusate Sodium:** Concurrent administration is contraindicated as it may increase absorption of liquid paraffin.
* **Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Absorption may be reduced with chronic use, potentially leading to deficiency.
## Monitoring
* Assess for effectiveness (bowel movements).
* Monitor for adverse effects, particularly anal leakage and abdominal cramping.
* Evaluate for signs of vitamin deficiency with long-term use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer with caution in patients with dysphagia or a risk of aspiration.
* Advise patients to take at bedtime to minimize interference with nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of anal leakage during the day.
* Recommend a full glass of water when taken orally to aid in stool softening.
* Avoid chronic or long-term use without medical supervision due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependency.
* Do not administer to patients in a supine position due to the risk of aspiration.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local protocols before making clinical decisions. Verify dosages and safety information with official drug compendia or regulatory agency resources.
