Senna
Also sold as: Senokot
No prescription neededConstipation (laxatives)
Comes as:TabletSyrup
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose: 7.5 to 15 mg of sennosides (usually 1 to 2 tablets) at bedtime; works in 8 to 12 hours. For short-term use only unless a doctor advises.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- stomach cramps
- diarrhoea
- harmless red or brown colour of urine
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe diarrhoea with weakness (dehydration
- low potassium)
- rectal bleeding
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Bowel blockage, appendicitis or stomach pain of unknown cause
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Children under 12 years unless a doctor advises
- Long-term regular use (can harm bowel function)
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Moderate1 medicineTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Digoxin
Overuse of senna can lower potassium and increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.