Liquid Paraffin + Magnesium Hydroxide
Indications
Liquid Paraffin + Magnesium Hydroxide is used for:
Constipation
Adult Dose
Oral
Adults:
Constipation
The recommended oral dose are as follows-
15-30ml before breakfast and/or at bedtime.
Up to 45 mL/day. Max duration: 1 wk.
Child Dose
Oral
Children:
Constipation
Over 7 years: 7.5ml-15ml at bedtime.
3-7 years: 5-10ml at bedtime.
Renal Dose
Administration
The dose may be mixed with milk or half a glass of water if desired.
Contra Indications
Renal failure, existing electrolyte imbalance, appendicitis symptoms, acute surgical abdomen, myocardial damage, heart block, fecal impaction, rectal fissures, intestinal obstruction or perforation, pregnant, bedridden, dysphagia
Precautions
Oral: not recommended for use in patients with difficulty swallowing or impaired neurodevelopment. Avoid prolonged use as a laxative or faecal softener.
Pregnancy-Lactation
Interactions
May impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and possibly other compounds.
Adverse Effects
Side effects of Liquid Paraffin + Magnesium Hydroxide :
Anal irritation (excessive dose) and seepage. Foreign-body granulomatous reactions; vasospasm; lipoid pneumonia; interference with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting may present.
Mechanism of Action
Paraffin: When taken orally: penetrates and softens faecal material.
Magnesium hydroxide increases peristaltic activity causing osmotic retention of fluids, thus resulting in bowel evacuation. It also reduces stomach acid by reacting with hydrochloric acid to form Mg chloride.