Liquid%252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520paraffin

# Liquid Paraffin ## Overview Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant and emollient. It acts as a laxative by softening stool and lubricating the intestinal walls, facilitating easier passage. ## Primary Indications Constipation. ## Adult Dosing * **Laxative:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. * **Maximum dose:** Doses above 45 mL per day are generally not recommended without medical supervision. ## Pediatric Dosing Dosing in children is highly variable and should be guided by a pediatrician. General guidelines: * **1 to 12 years:** 5 mL once daily. Doses up to 10 mL once daily may be used under medical guidance. * **Under 1 year:** Use is generally not recommended due to risk of aspiration and potential systemic absorption. If used, consult a pediatrician for specific dosing. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required for renal or hepatic impairment. ## Contraindications * Known hypersensitivity to liquid paraffin. * Patients with appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, or inflammatory bowel disease. * Patients with dysphagia or a history of aspiration, due to risk of lipoid pneumonia. ## Adverse Effects * **Common:** Abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea. * **Long-term/High-dose use:** Anal leakage, perianal irritation, malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), lipoid pneumonia (especially with aspiration). ## Key Drug Interactions * **Fat-soluble vitamins:** May decrease absorption. Consider separate administration. * **Other laxatives:** Concurrent use may increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. ## Monitoring * Monitor for bowel movements and signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. * Assess for anal leakage or perianal irritation. * In long-term users, consider monitoring for fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer at bedtime to minimize disruption and potential anal leakage during the day. * Patient education regarding potential anal leakage is important. * Avoid use in patients with dysphagia or a known risk of aspiration. * Long-term daily use should be discouraged due to potential for dependence and vitamin malabsorption. Please verify this information against the most current prescribing information or formulary.