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# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a highly refined mineral oil used as a laxative. It acts as a lubricant, coating the stool and preventing water absorption from the bowel, thus facilitating easier passage. ## Primary Indications * Constipation ## Adult Dosing * **Oral:** 15-45 mL once daily or in divided doses. * **Rectal (as enema):** 100-150 mL as a retention enema. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Oral:** * 1-5 years: 5-10 mL once daily. * 6-12 years: 10-20 mL once daily. * Dosing for younger children should be guided by clinical judgment and local protocols, as safety and efficacy data are limited. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required based on renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. * Intestinal obstruction. * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Use with caution in patients at risk of aspiration, particularly those with swallowing difficulties or in the elderly, due to the risk of lipoid pneumonia. ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage (especially with higher doses). * Abdominal cramping. * Nausea. * Vomiting. * Lipoid pneumonia (rare, associated with chronic or aspirated use). * Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic use. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Chronic use of liquid paraffin may decrease their absorption. Consider separating administration by at least 2 hours. * **Other medications:** May interfere with the absorption of other orally administered drugs. Consider separating administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements: Frequency and consistency. * Signs of anal leakage or cramping. * Long-term use: Monitor for potential vitamin malabsorption. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer undiluted or mixed with water. * Avoid lying down immediately after administration to minimize the risk of aspiration. * Long-term, regular use should be avoided due to potential vitamin malabsorption and dependency. * The risk of lipoid pneumonia is a serious concern, especially in the elderly or those with impaired swallowing. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always verify current prescribing information and consult relevant guidelines or resources before making clinical decisions.