Please check your internet connection and try again.
# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal walls and softens stool, promoting bowel movements.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily at bedtime. Some sources suggest up to 45 mL daily in divided doses. Do not exceed recommended maximum daily doses as per local protocol.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Dosing in children is generally not recommended due to increased risk of aspiration and adverse effects. If used, it should be under strict medical supervision. Doses of 5-10 mL once daily at bedtime have been used in older children. Use in infants is generally contraindicated.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment, however, caution is advised due to potential for systemic absorption and lipoid pneumonia in compromised individuals.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Patients with difficulty swallowing due to risk of aspiration.
* Appendicitis or intestinal obstruction.
* Children under a certain age (e.g., typically under 1 year old) due to aspiration risk.
## Adverse Effects
* Most common: Rectal leakage, anal irritation, abdominal cramping, nausea.
* Serious: Lipoid pneumonia (especially with aspiration or chronic use in the supine position), impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* Can decrease absorption of fat-soluble medications (e.g., warfarin, oral contraceptives, fat-soluble vitamins) when administered concurrently. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of aspiration (e.g., coughing, shortness of breath).
* Signs of vitamin deficiency with chronic use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to reduce the risk of leakage and minimize interference with nutrient absorption.
* Advise patients to remain in an upright position for at least 2 hours after administration to reduce aspiration risk.
* Not intended for long-term use. If constipation persists, other causes should be investigated.
* The risk of lipoid pneumonia is significant, especially in the elderly, debilitated patients, or those with gastroesophageal reflux.
***
*Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant guidelines for complete details and to confirm specific product labeling before making any clinical decisions.*
