Liquid%25252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant laxative. It softens stool by coating it with a waterproof film, preventing water reabsorption from the colon. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 10 mL to 40 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. The dose should be individualized based on patient response. Do not exceed 40 mL daily. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * **1 to 5 years:** 5 mL once daily. * **6 to 12 years:** 10 mL once daily. * **Over 12 years:** 10 mL to 40 mL once daily. * Maximum dose for children is typically 20 mL daily, but consult local protocols. ## Dose Adjustments * No specific dose adjustments are necessary for hepatic or renal impairment. ## Contraindications * Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal conditions. * Ileus. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Prophylactic use in patients at risk of aspiration. ## Adverse Effects * Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting. * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses or in patients with impaired anal sphincter control). * Lipoid pneumonia (rare, associated with chronic aspiration, particularly in the elderly or debilitated). * Interference with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, high-dose use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Chronic use may decrease absorption. Consider separate administration or supplementation. * **Cholestyramine, colestipol:** May reduce absorption of other drugs by binding them in the gastrointestinal tract. * **Docusate:** Concurrent use is generally not recommended as it may increase systemic absorption of mineral oil. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements (frequency, consistency). * Signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance with significant diarrhea. * Signs of aspiration if risk factors are present. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer undiluted or mixed with water. * Avoid use in patients at risk of aspiration (e.g., elderly, debilitated, those with dysphagia or reflux). * Long-term, habitual use should be discouraged due to potential for vitamin malabsorption and dependence. * Ensure adequate hydration when using laxatives. *** Please verify the current prescribing information and local protocols for complete and up-to-date drug information.