Health Dictionary
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Liquid paraffin
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Medicinal liquid paraffin, also known as paraffinum liquidum, is a very highly refined mineral oil used in cosmetics and for medical purposes. This is a UK definition (British Pharmacopoeia) and the term may have different uses in other countries. The cosmetic or medicinal liquid paraffin should not be confused with the paraffin (or kerosene) used as a fuel.
The term paraffinum perliquidum is sometimes used to denote light liquid paraffin. Conversely, the term paraffinum subliquidum is sometimes used to denote a thicker (more viscus/oily) mineral oil.
Usage and Side effects
Usage and Side effects
Liquid paraffin is considered to have a limited usefulness as an occasional laxative, but is unsuitable for regular use as it can seep from the anus and cause irritation; it can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins; it can be absorbed into the intestinal wall and may cause foreign-body granulamatous reactions; and if it enters the lungs it can cause lipoid pneumonia.[1]
Liquid paraffin is also used in combination with magnesium as an osmotic laxative, sold under the trade name Mil-Par (among others).[2]
References
References
- ↑ Alan Nathan. Non-prescription medicines. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 2006 [cited October 8, 2011]. ISBN 978-0-85369-644-5. p. 68.
- ↑ “Magnesium & Liquid Paraffin”. Patient UK.
External links
External links
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]