Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and promoting bowel movements. ## Primary Indications * **Constipation:** Relief of occasional constipation. ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Maximum dose is generally 30 mL per day. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * **1-5 years:** 5 mL once daily. * **6-12 years:** 5-10 mL once daily. * **Over 12 years:** Same as adult dosing. * Dosing for children under 1 year should be under strict medical supervision. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are generally required for hepatic or renal impairment. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis. * Intestinal obstruction. * Unexplained abdominal pain. * Nausea and vomiting. * Proctocolitis. * Children under 1 year of age (relative contraindication due to aspiration risk). ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, anal leakage. * **Less Common:** Nausea, vomiting. * **Serious (rare):** Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated, particularly in debilitated patients or those with impaired swallowing). Malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption with chronic concurrent use. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Mineral oil:** Can decrease the absorption of other orally administered drugs. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Signs of abdominal pain, cramping, or distension. * Signs of electrolyte imbalance if diarrhea occurs. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and risk of anal leakage. * Avoid administration immediately before lying down to reduce the risk of aspiration. * Not intended for long-term use. Chronic use may lead to dependence, vitamin malabsorption, and anal leakage. * Consider alternative laxatives for chronic constipation. * Use with caution in the elderly or those with swallowing difficulties due to aspiration risk. *** *This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information and local protocols before administering medication.*