Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It coats the intestinal lumen, softening stool and facilitating passage. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, preferably at bedtime. * **Rectal (as an enema):** 100 mL to 200 mL as a retention enema. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * 1 to 12 years: 5 mL to 10 mL once daily. * Under 1 year: Use is generally not recommended due to increased risk of aspiration. If used, dosing should be highly individualized and under strict medical supervision, typically starting with very small amounts (e.g., 1-2.5 mL). ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Intestinal obstruction or perforation. * Fecal impaction. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Risk of aspiration (especially in the elderly, debilitated, or those with swallowing difficulties). ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Anal leakage, perianal irritation, bloating, abdominal cramps. * **Serious (rare):** Lipid pneumonia (if aspirated), vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Mineral oil can decrease the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and other orally administered medications.** Separate administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movement frequency and consistency. * Assess for signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation. * In patients on chronic therapy, consider monitoring for vitamin deficiencies. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime leakage and discomfort. * Advise patients to drink a full glass of water with oral doses. * Due to the risk of aspiration, liquid paraffin should be used with extreme caution in infants, the elderly, and individuals with impaired swallowing reflexes. * Long-term, regular use may lead to dependence on laxatives. --- ***Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information with the official product monograph or reliable drug compendia before making clinical decisions.*