Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by softening stool and lubricating the intestinal tract, facilitating easier bowel movements. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically taken at bedtime. Maximum dose generally not to exceed 30 mL per day. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Constipation:** Dosing varies by age and is often guided by local protocol or physician direction. * **Ages 1-5 years:** Typically 5 mL once daily. * **Ages 6-12 years:** Typically 10 mL once daily. * **Children over 12 years:** Can generally follow adult dosing. * **Note:** Use in infants and very young children should be under strict medical supervision due to the risk of aspiration. ## Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Intestinal obstruction. * Concurrent use with other laxatives or medications that may increase aspiration risk. * Patients with difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipid pneumonia. ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, anal irritation. * **Serious (rare):** Lipid pneumonia (if aspirated), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can decrease their absorption with chronic use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours if concomitant use is necessary. * **Other laxatives:** Concomitant use can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance and diarrhea. ## Monitoring * Bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Signs of abdominal discomfort or cramping. * Signs of aspiration (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) if the patient has risk factors. ## Clinical Pearls * Liquid paraffin is for occasional and short-term use only. Chronic use can lead to dependence and malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins. * Advise patients to take liquid paraffin at bedtime to minimize the risk of aspiration during waking hours. * Ensure adequate hydration when using laxatives. * Avoid use in patients with a history of dysphagia or conditions that increase aspiration risk. *** *Please verify current prescribing information for the most up-to-date and comprehensive details.*