Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil that acts as an emollient and a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and facilitating its passage. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Doses can be adjusted based on clinical response. Maximum dose not definitively established, but higher doses increase risk of adverse effects. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** Generally not recommended for children under 12 years due to risk of aspiration and adverse effects. If used under medical supervision, doses are typically lower and based on age and weight. Specific pediatric dosing varies significantly and should be guided by local protocol or specialist advice. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment, as systemic absorption is minimal. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin * Patients with dysphagia or reduced gag reflex (risk of aspiration) * Acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or intestinal obstruction * Concurrent use with docusate sodium ## Adverse Effects * **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anal leakage (especially with higher doses). * **Aspiration:** Can lead to chemical pneumonitis, which can be severe and fatal. This is a significant risk, particularly in the elderly, those with impaired swallowing, or when taken in recumbent position. * **Malabsorption:** Long-term, high-dose use can impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Docusate sodium:** Concurrent use is contraindicated as it may increase absorption of liquid paraffin. * **Other laxatives:** Concurrent use may increase the risk of diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance. * **Fat-soluble vitamins:** Long-term use may decrease absorption. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements and consistency * Signs of abdominal pain or distension * For signs of aspiration (coughing, choking, shortness of breath) * Nutritional status (if long-term, high-dose use is considered) ## Clinical Pearls * Administer with caution, especially in the elderly or those with swallowing difficulties, due to the risk of aspiration. * Avoid administration immediately before lying down. * Warn patients about potential anal leakage, especially with higher doses. * Do not use for prolonged periods without medical advice. * Consider alternatives for chronic constipation. --- **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant guidelines for definitive recommendations. Dosing and safety can vary based on individual patient factors and local protocols.