Please check your internet connection and try again.
# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the bowel, softening stool and easing passage. It is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-45 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Doses may vary based on product formulation and individual response.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Generally not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice due to risk of aspiration and potential for lipid pneumonia. If used under medical supervision, doses are significantly lower and specific to age and weight. For example:
* **1-5 years:** 2.5-5 mL once daily.
* **6-12 years:** 5-10 mL once daily.
* *Note: Dosing can vary significantly by product and healthcare provider. Always consult specific pediatric guidelines.*
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment as it is not systemically absorbed.
## Contraindications
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Nausea, vomiting, or acute inflammatory bowel disease.
* Difficulty swallowing due to aspiration risk, especially in the elderly or those with neurological impairment.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea, abdominal cramping.
* Anal leakage (particularly with larger doses or inadequate fluid intake).
* Lipid pneumonia (rare, associated with aspiration, especially in the supine position or in those with impaired gag reflex).
* Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with prolonged or high-dose use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* May decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and other orally administered lipophilic drugs. Administer liquid paraffin at least 2 hours apart from other medications.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and signs of fecal impaction or obstruction.
* Assess for anal leakage or perianal irritation.
* Monitor for signs of aspiration or respiratory distress.
## Clinical Pearls
* Best taken at bedtime to minimize disruption.
* Encourage adequate fluid intake to enhance efficacy and prevent anal leakage.
* Avoid lying down immediately after administration due to aspiration risk.
* Should not be used for more than 1-2 weeks without medical consultation.
* Consider alternative agents for chronic constipation.
***
*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify the most current prescribing information with the manufacturer's labeling or other standard references before making clinical decisions.*
