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# Liquid Paraffin
## Overview
Liquid paraffin is a mineral oil used as a laxative. It lubricates the intestinal wall, softening stool and preventing water absorption.
## Primary Indications
Constipation.
## Adult Dosing
* **Oral:** 10 mL to 30 mL once daily, preferably at bedtime.
* **Maximum Dose:** Not explicitly defined, but doses exceeding 30 mL daily are generally not recommended due to increased risk of adverse effects.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Ages 6-12 years:** 5 mL to 10 mL once daily.
* **Ages 1-5 years:** 2.5 mL to 5 mL once daily.
* **Under 1 year:** Use is generally not recommended. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing if absolutely necessary. Doses are typically very small and determined by weight.
## Dose Adjustments
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment.
## Contraindications
* Intestinal obstruction.
* Appendicitis.
* Abdominal pain of unknown origin.
* Nausea and vomiting.
* Concomitant use with docusate.
* Patients who are bedridden or have difficulty swallowing due to the risk of aspiration and lipoid pneumonia.
## Adverse Effects
* Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting.
* Anal leakage.
* Lipoid pneumonia (if aspirated).
* Vitamin malabsorption (with chronic use, particularly fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K):** Reduced absorption with chronic use. Administer vitamin supplements at least 2 hours apart from liquid paraffin.
* **Docusate:** Concomitant use can increase absorption of mineral oil, leading to a higher risk of systemic toxicity.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for bowel movements and stool consistency.
* Assess for signs of vitamin deficiency with chronic use.
* Monitor for signs of aspiration or lipoid pneumonia, especially in at-risk patients.
## Clinical Pearls
* Administer at bedtime to reduce the risk of anal leakage.
* Avoid use in patients at high risk for aspiration.
* Chronic use can lead to vitamin malabsorption; consider supplementation if use is prolonged.
* If constipation persists, consider alternative or adjunctive therapies.
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**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. It is essential to consult the most current prescribing information and institutional protocols for definitive guidance. Dosing and safety may vary based on individual patient factors and local guidelines.
