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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as a laxative. It acts as a lubricant, softening stool and preventing water absorption from the intestines, thereby easing defecation.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. Doses can be adjusted based on response.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Oral:** Generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age without medical supervision. For children 1-12 years, doses typically range from 5 mL to 15 mL once daily at bedtime, as directed by a healthcare provider.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.
## Contraindications
* Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal conditions.
* Ileus or intestinal obstruction.
* Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin.
* Routine long-term use in children due to potential for anal leakage and decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
## Adverse Effects
* Anal leakage, staining of underwear.
* Abdominal cramping or discomfort.
* Nausea.
* Potential for lipoid pneumonia if aspirated, particularly in the elderly or those with impaired swallowing reflexes.
* Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with chronic, high-dose use.
## Key Drug Interactions
* May reduce the absorption of orally administered drugs, particularly fat-soluble vitamins and certain anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin). Administer other oral medications at least 2 hours before or after liquid paraffin.
## Monitoring
* Bowel movements: Frequency, consistency, presence of anal leakage.
* Nutritional status: Monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency with long-term use.
* Aspiration risk: Assess in vulnerable populations.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize anal leakage.
* Do not administer immediately before lying down in the supine position due to the risk of aspiration.
* Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration.
* Short-term use is preferred. Chronic use should be carefully considered and monitored.
* Liquid paraffin is not absorbed systemically, making it generally safe for patients with renal or hepatic dysfunction.
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*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Please consult the most current prescribing information and relevant literature for complete details before making clinical decisions.*
