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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening the stool and easing its passage.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 15-45 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Doses can be taken as a single dose or divided.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral (Ages 6-12 years):** 5-15 mL once daily, usually at bedtime.
* **Oral (Ages 1-5 years):** 5 mL once daily, usually at bedtime.
* **Oral (Infants < 1 year):** Not generally recommended due to risk of aspiration. If used under strict medical supervision, dose is typically 1-3 mL once daily.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis).
* Appendicitis.
* Abdominal pain of unknown origin.
* Nausea or vomiting.
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Risk of aspiration (particularly in the elderly, debilitated, or those with impaired swallowing reflexes).
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, nausea.
* **Serious:** Lipid pneumonia (due to aspiration, particularly with chronic or high-dose use or in patients with risk factors for aspiration). Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can decrease their absorption. Consider administration of vitamins separately or at a different time of day.
* **Mineral oil laxatives in general:** May reduce the absorption of other orally administered drugs.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and relief of constipation.
* Assess for signs of aspiration, especially in at-risk individuals.
* Evaluate for electrolyte imbalances if diarrhea is significant.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize interference with daytime activities and reduce aspiration risk.
* Do not administer with meals.
* Advise patients to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking liquid paraffin to reduce the risk of aspiration.
* Avoid chronic use due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and risk of lipid pneumonia.
* For children, use the smallest effective dose and monitor closely for aspiration.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for clinical use only and does not replace professional judgment. Always consult the most current prescribing information and institutional protocols for definitive guidance.
