Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a laxative that lubricates the intestinal wall, softening stool and facilitating passage. It is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 45 mL once daily. Dosing is typically initiated at the lower end and titrated as needed. Some sources suggest up to 60 mL once daily, but efficacy and safety beyond 45 mL are less established. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** Dosing varies significantly by age and is often guided by physician discretion and specific product labeling. * **1-5 years:** Generally not recommended due to risk of aspiration. If used, very cautious dosing (e.g., 5 mL once daily) may be considered under strict medical supervision. * **6-12 years:** 5 mL to 15 mL once daily. * **Over 12 years:** As per adult dosing. * **Aspiration risk is a significant concern in infants and young children, especially when administered orally.** ## Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Intestinal obstruction or perforation. * Appendicitis or acute abdominal pain of unknown origin. * Gastrointestinal bleeding. * Difficulty swallowing (due to aspiration risk). * Use with caution in the elderly or debilitated patients. ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea, anal leakage (especially with higher doses or when taken in the evening). * **Serious:** **Lipoid pneumonia** (if aspirated), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use), electrolyte disturbances (with excessive use leading to diarrhea). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can reduce their absorption with chronic use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Docusate:** Concurrent administration may increase absorption of liquid paraffin. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements (frequency, consistency). * Signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation. * Signs of vitamin deficiency (with chronic use). * Respiratory status (especially in infants and the elderly, to monitor for aspiration). ## Clinical Pearls * Administer undiluted or mixed with a small amount of liquid. * Do not take immediately before lying down due to aspiration risk. * Avoid concurrent use with other laxatives without medical advice. * Chronic use can lead to dependence and potential complications like lipoid pneumonia and vitamin malabsorption. * Consider alternative agents for long-term management of constipation. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always verify current prescribing information and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to drug therapy.*