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# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as an emollient and laxative. It works by softening stool and lubricating the intestinal tract, easing defecation. ## Primary Indications * Constipation * Prevention of fecal impaction ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10-30 mL once daily, usually at bedtime. * **Emollient:** Applied topically to skin as needed. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Laxative:** * 1-5 years: 5 mL once daily. * 6-12 years: 10 mL once daily. * Children over 12 years: 10-20 mL once daily. * Dosing for children under 1 year is not well-established and should be used with caution and under medical supervision. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Allergic reactions to liquid paraffin. * Acute abdominal conditions (e.g., appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease). * Patients with difficulty swallowing due to risk of aspiration. ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage, soiling, and irritation. * Abdominal cramping. * Nausea. * Risk of lipid pneumonia if aspirated, especially in infants and the elderly. * Long-term use may lead to decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Mineral Oil:** Concurrent use with mineral oil can increase the risk of systemic absorption and adverse effects, particularly lipid pneumonia if aspirated. Avoid coadministration. * **Other Laxatives:** Concurrent use of stimulant laxatives may lead to excessive fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movements and relief of constipation. * Assess for signs of anal leakage or irritation. * In long-term users, consider monitoring for signs of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime soiling and facilitate overnight bowel action. * Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or those at risk of aspiration. * Do not administer to patients with acute abdominal pain of unknown origin. * Advise patients to use caution when administering to infants and children due to aspiration risk. *** *Disclaimer: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information and consult relevant guidelines or drug compendia before making clinical decisions.*