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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal tract, softening stool and easing passage.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10-30 mL once daily or as needed. Doses may be adjusted based on response and local protocol.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:**
* 1-5 years: 5-10 mL once daily.
* 6-12 years: 10-15 mL once daily.
* Dosing may be adjusted based on response and local protocol.
* Not generally recommended for infants under 1 year of age due to risk of aspiration.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Acute abdominal conditions (e.g., appendicitis, intestinal obstruction).
* Difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea.
* Anal leakage (especially with higher doses).
* Long-term use may lead to vitamin malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K).
* Aspiration can cause lipoid pneumonia, which can be severe and potentially fatal.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Mineral Oil laxatives can decrease the absorption of:** Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and many other oral medications by decreasing their absorption. Consider separating administration of other oral medications by at least 2 hours.
* Increased risk of bleeding with warfarin; monitor INR closely.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and stool consistency.
* Assess for signs of abdominal discomfort or distension.
* If used long-term, consider monitoring vitamin levels.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize anal leakage during sleep.
* Advise patients to report any severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or inability to pass stool.
* Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration.
* Due to the risk of lipoid pneumonia, oral administration is generally preferred over rectal administration.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for clinical use and does not replace comprehensive drug information resources. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local protocols before making clinical decisions.
