Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It acts as a lubricant in the gut, softening stool and easing defecation. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10-30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Doses can be adjusted based on response. Some sources suggest up to 45 mL daily in divided doses. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Laxative:** * 1-5 years: 5 mL once daily. * 5-12 years: 10 mL once daily. * Dosing in infants and younger children should be guided by a pediatrician due to increased risk of aspiration and adverse effects. ## Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment, but caution is advised in elderly patients. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration, as this increases the risk of lipoid pneumonia. * Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis). * Intestinal obstruction or suspected appendicitis. ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses). * Abdominal discomfort, cramping, nausea, vomiting. * Lipoid pneumonia (rare, but serious, particularly with chronic use or in patients with impaired swallowing). * Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, prolonged use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Absorption may be reduced with chronic use. Consider separating administration or supplementing. * **Docusate sodium:** Concurrent use is generally not recommended as it may increase the absorption of liquid paraffin. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements and frequency. * Signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation. * For chronic use, monitor for potential vitamin deficiencies. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime anal leakage. * Patient counseling on potential for anal leakage is important. * Avoid use in patients with difficulty swallowing. * Long-term, daily use should be avoided due to potential for dependence and vitamin malabsorption. * Do not lie down immediately after taking to reduce the risk of aspiration. *** *This information is intended for clinical use and does not substitute for professional medical judgment. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant guidelines before making clinical decisions.*