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# Liquid Paraffin (Mineral Oil)
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as a laxative and emollient. It works by lubricating the bowel and softening stool, facilitating easier passage.
## Primary Indications
* Constipation (short-term management)
* Prevention of fecal impaction
* Topical emollient for dry skin conditions
## Adult Dosing
* **Laxative:** 15-45 mL once daily, typically at bedtime. For severe constipation, doses may be increased cautiously, but long-term use is generally discouraged.
* **Topical:** Apply liberally to affected areas as needed.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Laxative:**
* 1-6 years: 5-10 mL once daily.
* 6-12 years: 10-15 mL once daily.
* Over 12 years: Adult dosing applies.
* **Note:** Use in children should be under medical supervision due to risks of aspiration and adverse effects.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Allergic reaction to liquid paraffin.
* Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
* Intestinal obstruction or perforation.
* Individuals with difficulty swallowing due to risk of aspiration, especially in the elderly or those with neurological impairment.
## Adverse Effects
* **Gastrointestinal:** Abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anal leakage.
* **Long-term use:** Reduced absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated), perianal irritation.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Mineral oil can reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).**
* **Mineral oil can reduce the absorption of concurrently administered medications, particularly those with poor water solubility (e.g., digoxin, some anticoagulants).** Administer other oral medications at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after liquid paraffin.
## Monitoring
* Assess for bowel movements and relief of constipation.
* Monitor for signs of anal leakage, perianal irritation, or malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins with chronic use.
* Monitor for signs of aspiration, especially in high-risk patients.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to minimize daytime inconvenience from anal leakage.
* Due to the risk of aspiration, oral administration is not recommended for patients with gastroesophageal reflux, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.
* Chronic use can lead to dependence and vitamin malabsorption. Limit use to short-term management of constipation.
* Topical application can provide symptomatic relief for dry skin but may leave a greasy residue.
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*This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the current prescribing information and relevant guidelines before making clinical decisions.*
