Indications
Sonapata is the dried leaf of the senna plant (Cassia angustifolia, also called Senna alexandrina). It is used in Unani and Ayurvedic laxative preparations, often combined with ispaghula (isabgol) husk. It is used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation and, in traditional medicine, for clearing the bowel.
How It Works
Senna leaves contain natural substances called sennosides. Bacteria in the large bowel change them into active forms that stimulate the bowel muscles to contract and draw water into the stool. This usually produces a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours, so it is often taken at bedtime.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, usually once at bedtime with a full glass of water. Use for the shortest time possible, normally no longer than 1 week without medical advice. Drink plenty of fluids and eat fibre-rich food.
Interactions
Long or heavy use can lower potassium levels, which increases the risk of side effects from Digoxin and some heart rhythm medicines, and adds to potassium loss from diuretics (such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide) and corticosteroids (such as Prednisolone). Licorice also lowers potassium. Faster bowel transit may reduce absorption of other medicines.
Contraindications
- Bowel blockage, severe constipation with vomiting, or unexplained stomach pain.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), appendicitis.
- Severe dehydration.
- Children under 12 years unless a doctor advises.
Side Effects
Common effects include stomach cramps, wind and loose stools. Urine may turn yellow-brown or reddish, which is harmless. Long-term use can cause loss of salts (especially potassium), dependence on laxatives and darkening of the bowel lining.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe stomach pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhoea, or signs of low potassium such as muscle weakness, cramps or irregular heartbeat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Try diet changes and bulk-forming fibre first. Senna should be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if a doctor advises, and for a short time.
Precautions and Warnings
- Senna is a strong stimulant laxative. Do not use it regularly or for weight loss.
- See a doctor if constipation lasts more than 2 weeks, or if there is a sudden change in bowel habit, blood in the stool or weight loss.
- Older people and those with heart or kidney disease are more at risk from salt loss.
Overdose
Overdose causes severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps and dehydration with loss of salts. Drink fluids and contact a doctor, especially for children or older adults.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal stimulant laxative (Unani / Ayurvedic preparation).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep tightly closed and 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.