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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative and emollient. It works by lubricating the intestinal tract and softening stool.
## Primary Indications
* **Constipation:** For short-term relief of occasional constipation.
* **Fecal impaction:** To help soften impacted stool.
## Adult Dosing
* **Constipation:** 15-45 mL once daily, taken at bedtime.
* **Fecal impaction:** Larger doses may be prescribed under medical supervision.
## Pediatric Dosing
Dosing in children should be determined by a healthcare provider. General guidance for children over 12 years is similar to adult dosing, but caution is advised. For younger children, the dose is typically lower and depends on age and weight.
* **Children 6-12 years:** 5-15 mL once daily at bedtime.
* **Children under 6 years:** Dosing should be guided by a healthcare provider. Use with caution.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustments are typically required based on renal or hepatic impairment, as absorption is minimal.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Intestinal obstruction, appendicitis, or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Prolonged use, especially in the elderly or debilitated, due to risk of anal leakage and potential for lipid pneumonia if aspirated.
## Adverse Effects
* **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anal leakage.
* **Respiratory:** Lipid pneumonia (rare, associated with aspiration, particularly in infants or those with impaired swallowing).
* **Other:** Malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, high-dose use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Reduced absorption. Administer vitamins at least 2 hours apart from liquid paraffin.
* **Other laxatives:** Concurrent use may increase the risk of diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for effectiveness (bowel movements).
* Assess for adverse effects, particularly anal leakage, cramping, or signs of aspiration.
* Evaluate for signs of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency with prolonged use.
## Clinical Pearls
* Best taken at bedtime to minimize disruption and potential for anal leakage during the day.
* Do not take with meals, as this can increase the risk of aspiration and lipid pneumonia.
* Avoid lying down immediately after administration.
* Not intended for long-term daily use; chronic constipation requires investigation into underlying causes.
* Aspiration is a significant risk, especially in infants, the elderly, and individuals with swallowing difficulties.
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_This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the current prescribing information or a reliable drug information resource for complete details before making clinical decisions._
