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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and lubricant. It acts by coating the intestinal lining, preventing water reabsorption and softening the stool.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Maximum dose is typically not specified but should be guided by clinical response and patient tolerance.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:**
* 1-6 years: 5 mL once daily.
* 6-12 years: 10 mL once daily.
* Children younger than 1 year: Generally not recommended due to increased risk of aspiration and systemic absorption. Consult a pediatrician for specific guidance.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Patients with difficulty swallowing due to risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia.
* Comatose patients or those at risk of aspiration.
* Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
* Intestinal obstruction.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea
* Abdominal cramping
* Nausea
* Perianal leakage/staining (especially with higher doses)
* Malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
* Lipoid pneumonia (rare, with chronic aspiration).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption with chronic or high-dose use. Consider vitamin supplementation if chronic use is anticipated.
* **Other oral medications:** May interfere with the absorption of other concurrently administered oral drugs by forming a physical barrier in the GI tract. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movements (frequency, consistency)
* Signs of electrolyte imbalance if diarrhea occurs.
* Signs of vitamin deficiency with long-term use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Advise patients to take liquid paraffin on an empty stomach and not to lie down immediately after taking it to minimize the risk of aspiration.
* Avoid use in patients with dysphagia.
* Long-term daily use is generally discouraged due to the potential for dependence and malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Intermittent use is preferred.
* Ensure adequate fluid intake when using.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and your institution's protocols before administering any medication.
