Liquid%2525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# 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 in divided doses. * Maximum dose: Not clearly established, but generally not recommended for long-term use. ## Pediatric Dosing **Oral:** * **1-5 years:** 5 mL once daily. * **6-12 years:** 5-10 mL once daily. * **Over 12 years:** Same as adult dosing. * **Under 1 year:** Contraindicated. ## Dose Adjustments No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment. However, prolonged use should be avoided in all patients. ## Contraindications * Hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, fecal impaction, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain of unknown origin. * Infants under 1 year of age. * Patients with difficulty swallowing due to risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia. ## Adverse Effects * Anal leakage, perianal irritation. * Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea. * Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) with prolonged use. * Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Decreased absorption. Advise administration of vitamins at least 2 hours apart from liquid paraffin. * **Mineral oil-based laxatives:** Concurrent use may increase the risk of anal leakage and absorption issues. ## Monitoring * Bowel movements for efficacy and frequency. * Signs of abdominal pain, distension, or obstruction. * Monitor for signs of vitamin deficiency if used long-term. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer undiluted or mixed with water or juice. Avoid mixing with hot liquids as it can increase aspiration risk. * Do not administer at bedtime due to risk of anal leakage and soiling. * Avoid in patients with dysphagia or reflux. * Prolonged or frequent use should be discouraged. *** *Please verify the current prescribing information for this drug as it may vary by jurisdiction and specific product formulation.*