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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It coats the intestinal walls, softening stool and easing defecation.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Standard Dose:** 10-30 mL orally once daily, usually at bedtime.
* **Maximum Dose:** No strict maximum dose is defined, but efficacy and adverse effects should be monitored. Doses are typically titrated to effect.
## Pediatric Dosing
Dosing in children should be individualized and ideally guided by a pediatrician. General guidelines:
* **Children 1-5 years:** 5 mL orally once daily.
* **Children 6-12 years:** 10 mL orally once daily.
* **Children >12 years:** As per adult dosing.
* **Infants <1 year:** Use is generally discouraged due to risk of aspiration and lipid pneumonia. If used, extreme caution and medical supervision are required, typically with doses of 1-5 mL once daily.
## Dose Adjustments
* **Renal Impairment:** No specific dose adjustment is generally required.
* **Hepatic Impairment:** No specific dose adjustment is generally required.
## Contraindications
* Patients with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) due to the risk of aspiration.
* Patients with known hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
## Adverse Effects
* Gastrointestinal: Abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, anal leakage.
* Long-term use may lead to: Vitamin malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K), lipid pneumonia (if aspirated), and fecal impaction.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Liquid paraffin can impair the absorption of these vitamins. Consider separating administration by at least 2 hours or supplementing.
* **Other Oral Medications:** May decrease the absorption of other orally administered drugs by coating the GI tract. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movement frequency and consistency.
* Signs of vitamin deficiency with prolonged use.
* Signs of aspiration (coughing, choking) especially in children or elderly patients.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and potential anal leakage during waking hours.
* Do not administer to patients who are lying down or prone to regurgitation.
* Avoid prolonged use (typically longer than 1-2 weeks) without medical advice due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependence.
* Encourage adequate fluid intake alongside liquid paraffin for optimal effect.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information and consult with appropriate resources before making clinical decisions. Dosing can vary based on individual patient factors and local protocols.
