Indications
Senna Extract is a concentrated extract of senna leaves or pods, standardised to contain sennosides. It is found in laxative products, often combined with Ispaghula husk. It is used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation and to clear the bowel when advised by a doctor.
How It Works
Sennosides pass unchanged to the large bowel, where gut bacteria convert them into active substances. These stimulate the muscles of the bowel wall to push contents along and increase water in the stool. A bowel movement usually follows within 6 to 12 hours.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label, usually once at bedtime with a full glass of water. Adults commonly take products providing about 7.5 to 15 mg of sennosides a day, not more than 30 mg a day. Use for the shortest time possible, usually no longer than 1 week without medical advice.
Interactions
Prolonged use can lower potassium, increasing the risk of side effects with Digoxin and heart rhythm medicines such as Amiodarone. Diuretics such as Furosemide and corticosteroids such as Prednisolone also lower potassium. Faster bowel transit may reduce absorption of other medicines.
Contraindications
- Bowel obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) and appendicitis.
- Severe dehydration.
- Children under 12 years unless prescribed.
Side Effects
Common: stomach cramps, wind, loose stools. Harmless discolouration of urine (yellow-brown or red) may occur. Long-term use may cause low potassium, laxative dependence and darkening of the bowel lining.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhoea, muscle weakness or an irregular heartbeat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Try diet changes and fibre first. Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if a doctor advises, for a short time. Small amounts may pass into breast milk.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not use regularly or for weight loss.
- See a doctor if constipation lasts more than 2 weeks, or if you have blood in the stool, weight loss or a sudden change in bowel habit.
- Take extra care in older people and those with heart or kidney disease.
Overdose
Overdose causes severe diarrhoea, cramps, dehydration and salt loss. Drink fluids and contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Stimulant laxative (anthraquinone, herbal origin).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.