Liquid Paraffin
Description
In an oral dosage form, liquid paraffin is used as a stool softener; it is used in the treatment of constipation by preventing dry and hard stools. As a stool softener, it is not recommended for use in children less than 3 years of age. The topical forms of liquid paraffin are used in a combination with other medicines in skin care products; it is used for the prevention of dry skin.
QUICK LINKS:
Side effects
Major & minor side effects for Liquid Paraffin
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Itching and skin rash
Uses of Liquid Paraffin
What is it prescribed for?
- Constipation
- Skin Conditions
Read More
Concerns
Commonly asked questions
- Onset of actionThe amount of time taken by this medicine to show its effect is subject to vary based on the strength of the dose, the form of administration, and the individual constitution.
- Duration of effectThe amount of time for which this medicine remains effective is subject to vary based on the strength of the dose, the form of administration, and the individual constitution.
- Safe with alcohol?Interaction with alcohol is unknown. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption.
- Is it habit forming?This medicine may become habit-forming in some patients, especially if it is used for a prolonged period of time.
- Usage in pregnancy?This medicine is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. All the risks and benefits should be discussed with the doctor before taking/using this medicine.
- Usage while breast-feeding?This medicine is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women unless absolutely necessary. All the risks and benefits should be discussed with the doctor before taking/using this medicine.
Allergy
This medicine is not recommended for use in patients with a known allergy to liquid paraffin or any other inactive ingredients present along with it.
Warnings for special population
Pregnancy
This medicine is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. All the risks and benefits should be discussed with the doctor before taking/using this medicine.
Breast-feeding
This medicine is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women unless absolutely necessary. All the risks and benefits should be discussed with the doctor before taking/using this medicine.
General warnings
Prolonged use
This medicine is not recommended for use for more than 1 week due to the increased risk of dependence. It may also cause anal irritation on prolonged use.
Use in pediatrics
The oral form of this medicine is not recommended for use in children less than 3 years of age.
Fat soluble vitamins
This medicine may impair the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. This risk is especially higher if it is used for a prolonged period of time. You are advised to avoid the use of this medicine for more than 1 week.
Lipoid pneumonia
This medicine may cause a form of lung inflammation called lipoid pneumonia if it is accidentally inhaled. Hence, this medicine should be used with extreme caution in patients suffering from a difficulty in swallowing.
Missed Dose
This medicine is generally used as needed. If you are on a scheduled dosing regimen of this medicine, take/use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Overdose
An overdose of this medicine is unlikely to cause severe symptoms. However, discontinue treatment and seek emergency medical advise in case you accidentally inhale the medicine or if you experience severe adverse effects.
All drugs interact differently for person to person. You should check all the possible interactions with your doctor before starting any medicine.
Interaction with Alcohol
Description
Interaction with alcohol is unknown. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption.
Instructions
Interaction with alcohol is unknown. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption.
Interaction with Medicine
Disease interactions
Disease
Information not available.
Food interactions
Information not available.
Lab interactions
Information not available.
Take/Use this medicine following all instructions/directions mentioned on the package insert or the leaflet. Do not take/use in larger or smaller amounts than advised. Seek emergency medical treatment in case of any severe adverse effects.
Miscelleneous
How it works
As a stool softener, this medicine works by making the stools soft and easy to pass. When used topically, liquid paraffin prevents moisture from escaping the skin by forming a protective layer on the skin; this prevents skin dryness.
Legal Status
Classification
Category
Stool softeners, Miscellaneous topical agents, Topical emollients
Schedule
OTC
Liquid Paraffin - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (eMC) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. 2018 [cited 3 August 2018]. Available from:
Liquid Paraffin – Advanced Dermatology [Internet]. Advanced Dermatology. 2018 [cited 3 August 2018]. Available from:
Information on this page was last updated on 16 Aug 2018
Disclaimer
We’ve made all possible efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date and complete, however, it should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Practo only provides reference source for common information on medicines and does not guarantee its accuracy or exhaustiveness. The absence of a warning for any drug or combination thereof, should not be assumed to indicate that the drug or combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Practo does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided above. If you have any doubts about your medication then we strongly recommend that you consult with your doctor, nurse or healthcare provider. See detailed T&C here.