Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing its passage. It is not absorbed by the body. ## Primary Indications Constipation. ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Maximum dose is typically 45 mL daily. Dosing can be adjusted based on patient response. ## Pediatric Dosing Dosing in children should be guided by a pediatrician. General guidelines include: * **Ages 6-12 years:** 5 mL to 15 mL once daily. * **Ages 1-5 years:** 2.5 mL to 5 mL once daily. * **Under 1 year:** Generally not recommended without medical supervision. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption. ## Contraindications * Patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration. * Comatose or semi-comatose patients. * Inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis). * Intestinal obstruction. ## Adverse Effects * Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea. * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses or if taken without adequate fluid). * Nausea, vomiting. * **Lipoid pneumonia:** A serious concern if aspirated into the lungs, particularly in the elderly or those with impaired swallowing. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can decrease their absorption if taken concurrently. Administer at least 2 hours apart from vitamin supplements. * **Mineral oil enemas:** Should not be used concurrently with oral mineral oil due to increased risk of systemic absorption and toxicity. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements: Frequency and consistency. * Signs of anal leakage or leakage. * Signs of aspiration or respiratory distress. ## Clinical Pearls * Advise patients to take liquid paraffin on an empty stomach and not to lie down immediately after taking it to reduce the risk of aspiration. * Adequate fluid intake is important when using laxatives. * Long-term, daily use should be avoided unless under medical supervision due to the risk of vitamin malabsorption and potential for dependence. * Use with caution in the elderly or those with conditions predisposing to aspiration. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for clinical use and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult the most current prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines before making treatment decisions.*