Liquid%25252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a highly refined mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by coating the intestinal lining, preventing water reabsorption and softening stool. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily or divided into 2-3 doses. * **Rectal (enema):** 100-200 mL as a retention enema. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * 1-12 years: 5-15 mL once daily. * Less than 1 year: Use is generally not recommended due to risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. If necessary, consult specialist. Dosing should be individualized under strict medical supervision. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. However, caution is advised in elderly patients due to increased risk of aspiration. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with difficulty swallowing or a history of aspiration. * Intestinal obstruction or perforation. * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Severe inflammatory bowel disease. ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Abdominal cramping, nausea, diarrhea, anal leakage. * **Serious:** Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** May decrease absorption with chronic use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin):** May potentially reduce anticoagulant effect due to impaired vitamin K absorption with chronic use. Monitor INR closely. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements for effectiveness and frequency. * Signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation. * For chronic users, monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer oral liquid paraffin at bedtime to minimize anal leakage. * Avoid concurrent administration with fat-soluble vitamin supplements or oral anticoagulants. * Do not use for prolonged periods without medical advice. * Patients with dysphagia are at high risk for aspiration; oral use should be avoided. *** *This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local protocols before making clinical decisions.*