Senna is an herb that’s used to treat constipation. It’s also taken to empty the bowels before certain medical procedures or surgeries.
You can buy this product over the counter (OTC).
Senna is a stimulant laxative that works by irritating the lining of the bowel, which increases bowel movement.
When senna is sold as an herbal supplement, there aren’t universal governmental manufacturing standards in place. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking any type of supplement.
Senna is sold under different brand names, including Senokot.
uses
What is Senokot (Senna) used for?
- Constipation -- Acute
- Constipation
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Senokot (Senna)?
You should not use senna if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- diarrhea or loose stools;
- severe stomach pain;
- swelling or a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);
- Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, appendicitis;
- hemorrhoids, anal prolapse; or
- if you are dehydrated.
Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have ever had:
- an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium in your blood);
- any change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;
- long-term bowel problems;
- heart disease; or
- stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some forms of senna are made for use by children. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without the advice of a doctor.
User Reviews & Rating
Overall rating for Senokot (Senna)
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Senokot (Senna)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using senna and call your doctor at once if you have:
- rectal bleeding;
- no bowel movement within 12 hours after using senna; or
- low potassium level--leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling.
Constipation is the most common side effect of senna. Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Senokot (Senna) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Senokot (Senna)?
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Senokot (Senna)?
Use Senokot (Senna) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.
If you choose to use senna, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Senna should produce a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours after you take it.
Do not use different formulations of senna (such as tablets and liquid) at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of senna.
Senna may be unsafe when taken long-term or in high doses. Using senna for longer than 2 weeks may cause your bowels to stop functioning normally. Long-term use may also cause a serious electrolyte imbalance. Certain electrolyte imbalances can cause muscle weakness, heart problems, liver damage, and other harmful effects.
Call your healthcare provider if your constipation does not improve after 1 week of using senna, or if constipation gets worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Senokot (Senna)?
What to Expect
You may want to take this product at bedtime, as it typically produces a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours.
This medicine is for short-term use only. You shouldn’t take it for longer than a week without first checking with your doctor.
Let your doctor know if you experience any unusual side effects while using this medicine.
Additional Dosage Information
Your dose of senna will depend on your age, the formulation you use, the brand you purchase, your medical condition, and other factors.
Follow the instructions on the product label carefully when taking senna.
Secondary Uses
Though its effectiveness is unclear, senna may be used to treat other conditions, including:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Anal fissures (tears in the lining of the anus)
- Hemorrhoids
Some people also take it as a weight loss remedy, but there is no conclusive evidence to support this, and it's not recommended to use for weight loss.
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