Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin, a mineral oil, acts as an emollient and lubricant. It is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and works by coating the intestinal mucosa, softening stool, and preventing water absorption from the feces. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Some sources suggest up to 45 mL daily in divided doses. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral (2-12 years):** 5-10 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. * **Oral (under 2 years):** Generally not recommended due to increased risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. If used under strict medical supervision, doses are typically much lower (e.g., 1-2.5 mL once daily). ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with difficulty swallowing or a history of aspiration. * Use with caution in infants and young children due to risk of aspiration. * Inflammatory bowel disease. * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. ## Adverse Effects The most common adverse effects are related to the gastrointestinal tract, including abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anal leakage. * **Serious:** Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in infants and the elderly), perianal irritation. Long-term use may lead to decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Concurrent use with docusate sodium:** May increase the absorption of liquid paraffin, increasing the risk of adverse effects. * **Other medications:** May reduce the absorption of other orally administered drugs by coating the GI tract or altering transit time. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movements and consistency. * Assess for signs of abdominal pain, cramping, or anal leakage. * Evaluate for signs of aspiration, especially in at-risk populations. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize interference with daily activities due to potential anal leakage. * Advise patients to drink a full glass of water with each dose. * Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration. * Do not use for prolonged periods without medical advice. * Store away from heat. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines for complete and up-to-date details.*