Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal walls and softens stool, facilitating defecation. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * 10 mL to 30 mL by mouth once daily. Dosing may be taken at bedtime to reduce the risk of aspiration. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Children 6-12 years:** 5 mL to 15 mL by mouth once daily. * **Children under 6 years:** Use is generally not recommended. If used, consult with a pediatrician; typical doses are 1 mL to 5 mL by mouth once daily. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Known hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with dysphagia or impaired gag reflex due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. * Acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever of unknown origin. * Intestinal obstruction. ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses or if taken in an upright position). * Abdominal cramping. * Nausea. * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated). * Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (with chronic use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can reduce their absorption with chronic use. Consider separation of administration times or vitamin supplementation. * **Docusate:** Concurrent use is generally not recommended. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Assess for anal leakage or abdominal discomfort. * In patients on chronic therapy, consider monitoring fat-soluble vitamin levels. ## Clinical Pearls * Advise patients to take liquid paraffin in an upright position and to avoid lying down immediately after administration to minimize aspiration risk. * Anal leakage can be managed by reducing the dose or taking it at bedtime. * This medication is for short-term use only (typically 1 week). If constipation persists, further medical evaluation is warranted. * It is not absorbed systemically. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines before making treatment decisions.*