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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It works by softening the stool and coating the intestinal walls, making defecation easier.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-20 mL once daily or as needed. Doses can be taken at bedtime. Maximum dose not typically defined, but prolonged use should be avoided.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Dosing varies by age and is often guided by local protocol. Generally, lower doses are used for children.
* A common recommendation for children aged 1-12 years is 5 mL once daily or as needed, with a maximum of 10 mL per day.
* Use in infants under 1 year should be under strict medical supervision.
## Dose Adjustments
* **Renal/Hepatic Impairment:** No specific dose adjustments are typically required as it is poorly absorbed.
## Contraindications
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Gastrointestinal bleeding.
* Dysphagia (risk of aspiration).
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, anal leakage.
* **Serious:**
* **Lipoid Pneumonia:** Risk is significantly increased with chronic oral use, especially in the elderly or those with impaired gag reflexes, due to aspiration.
* **Malabsorption:** Chronic use can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
* **Pruritus ani** (anal itching).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption with chronic use.
* **Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin):** Potential for reduced absorption and efficacy due to decreased absorption of vitamin K.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of malabsorption (e.g., vitamin deficiencies).
* For individuals at risk of aspiration, monitor for respiratory symptoms.
## Clinical Pearls
* Liquid paraffin is intended for short-term use (typically 1 week). Prolonged use should be avoided due to the risk of lipoid pneumonia and vitamin malabsorption.
* It should be taken at least 2 hours apart from other medications to minimize interactions.
* Warn patients about the potential for anal leakage, which can cause irritation and staining of clothing.
* Aspiration is a serious risk, particularly in the elderly, debilitated patients, or those with impaired swallowing. Administration should be cautious in these populations.
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*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify the most current prescribing information with official drug literature and local protocols before patient administration.*
