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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by lubricating the intestinal tract, softening the stool, and promoting bowel movements.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
* Prevention and treatment of fecal impaction
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 10-30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. Doses may be adjusted based on patient response.
* **Fecal Impaction:** Higher doses may be used under medical supervision.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Constipation:**
* Ages 1-12 years: 5-10 mL once daily at bedtime.
* Infants (under 1 year): Generally not recommended. If used, consult specific pediatric guidelines and administer with extreme caution due to aspiration risk, typically at a dose of 2.5-5 mL once daily. **Consultation with a pediatrician is strongly recommended.**
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Patients with difficulty swallowing, as it increases the risk of aspiration, especially in infants and the elderly.
* Acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever of unknown origin.
* Intestinal obstruction.
## Adverse Effects
* Anal leakage and soiling
* Abdominal cramps
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated)
* Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* May reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
* May reduce the absorption of other orally administered medications due to its lubricating and potential effect on transit time. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movements (frequency, consistency)
* Signs of abdominal distension or pain
* Signs of aspiration (coughing, choking, difficulty breathing)
* Nutritional status with chronic use, particularly fat-soluble vitamins.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime soiling.
* Advise patients to drink a full glass of water with each dose to aid efficacy and reduce aspiration risk.
* Avoid prolonged use (typically not recommended for more than 1 week without medical advice) due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependence.
* Caution is advised in the elderly and very young due to aspiration risk.
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*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify the most current prescribing information with official drug compendia or the manufacturer's labeling before making clinical decisions.*
