Please check your internet connection and try again.
# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It coats the intestinal walls, softening stool and easing defecation. It is not absorbed systemically.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily or every other day, typically taken at bedtime. Some sources recommend a range of 15-45 mL once daily. Maximum daily dose is not well-established but generally kept to a minimum for efficacy and safety.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:**
* **1-6 years:** 5-10 mL once daily.
* **6-12 years:** 10-15 mL once daily.
* **Over 12 years:** Same as adult dosing.
* Dosing for infants and very young children should be supervised by a healthcare professional.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment due to lack of systemic absorption.
## Contraindications
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Fecal impaction.
* Nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of appendicitis.
* Allergy to liquid paraffin.
## Adverse Effects
* Gastrointestinal: Abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, anal leakage (especially with higher doses or if taken upright).
* Long-term use: Can lead to anal itching, perianal irritation, and impaired absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
* Lipoid pneumonia: Rare but serious risk if aspirated into the lungs, particularly in patients with impaired swallowing or if administered incorrectly.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can decrease their absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
* **Other medications:** May potentially decrease the absorption of other orally administered drugs by coating the gastrointestinal tract. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for effectiveness (bowel movements).
* Assess for adverse effects, particularly abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and anal leakage.
* Assess for signs of vitamin deficiency with prolonged use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and potential for anal leakage during waking hours.
* Advise patients to take upright to reduce the risk of aspiration.
* Long-term daily use should be avoided. It is intended for short-term relief of constipation.
* The risk of aspiration and subsequent lipoid pneumonia is a significant concern, especially in the elderly, those with impaired gag reflexes, or conditions affecting swallowing.
***
*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and institutional protocols before administering any medication.*
