Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by coating the intestinal lining, softening stool and promoting bowel movements. ## Primary Indications * Constipation (short-term relief) * Skin conditions (as an emollient in creams and lotions) ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10-30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Maximum dose varies but often not to exceed 45 mL daily. Duration of use should be short-term (typically less than one week). ## Pediatric Dosing * **Laxative:** * 1-5 years: 5 mL once daily. * 6-12 years: 10 mL once daily. * Dosing for children under 1 year is generally not recommended without physician guidance. Max dose typically not to exceed 15-20 mL daily. Duration of use should be short-term. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. * Pregnancy and breastfeeding (though generally considered low risk, use cautiously and consult provider). * Patients with dysphagia or a risk of aspiration (due to risk of lipoid pneumonia). ## Adverse Effects * Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea, nausea. * Anal leakage/soiling. * Malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic or high-dose use. * Lipoid pneumonia if aspirated (especially in infants, elderly, or those with impaired swallowing). * Pruritus and rash (rare, with topical use). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** May decrease absorption with concurrent use. Advise separation of doses. * **Mineral oil:** Can potentially reduce the absorption of other orally administered drugs. ## Monitoring * Monitor for effectiveness (bowel movements). * Assess for adverse effects, particularly abdominal discomfort and anal leakage. * Long-term use should be avoided. ## Clinical Pearls * Advise patients to take liquid paraffin at bedtime to minimize daytime anal leakage. * Do not administer to patients who are lying down or have difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. * If constipation persists for more than one week, or if rectal bleeding occurs, patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. * Topical use as an emollient is generally safe for various skin conditions. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure the appropriateness of any medication for your specific condition and to review the most current prescribing information.