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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a highly refined petroleum distillate. It acts as an emollient and a lubricant.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation (laxative)
* Skin conditions (emollient)
## Adult Dosing
* **Constipation:** 15-45 mL orally once daily or in divided doses.
* **Skin Emollient:** Apply topically as needed.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Constipation:**
* 1-5 years: 5-15 mL orally once daily.
* 6-12 years: 10-30 mL orally once daily.
* Over 12 years: Refer to adult dosing.
* **Skin Emollient:** Apply topically as needed. Dosing for infants and children should be guided by clinical assessment.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Acute inflammatory bowel disease.
* Ileus.
* Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain of unknown origin.
* Do not administer to patients who are unconscious, frail, or have difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia, especially when given orally.
## Adverse Effects
* **Gastrointestinal:** Anal leakage, perianal irritation, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
* **Systemic:** Vitamin malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K) with chronic oral use.
* **Aspiration:** Lipoid pneumonia (rare but serious if aspirated).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Oral liquid paraffin can decrease their absorption with chronic use. Separate administration or consider vitamin supplementation.
* **Docusate:** Concomitant use may increase absorption of liquid paraffin.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and signs of anal leakage or perianal irritation with oral use.
* Assess for signs of vitamin deficiency with long-term oral use.
* Observe for signs of aspiration if risk factors are present.
## Clinical Pearls
* Oral administration should ideally be taken at bedtime to minimize anal leakage.
* Avoid using in patients with a history of aspiration or dysphagia.
* Topical use can occlude pores; use with caution in acne-prone skin.
* Do not administer with other medications that might be affected by decreased absorption.
**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local protocols before administering any medication.
