Uses
Senna is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation. It also is used to empty the bowels before surgery and certain medical procedures. Senna is in a class of medications called stimulant laxatives. It works by increasing activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement.
Side Effects Of Senna
Senna may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- brown discoloration of urine
- faintness
- stomach discomfort
- nausea
- stomach cramps
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience this symptom, stop taking senna and call your doctor immediately:
- rectal bleeding
Senna may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking senna:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to senna, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in these products. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention: mineral oil laxatives. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- take certain senna products (Ex-Lax®, Perdiem Overnight Relief) at least 2 or more hours before or after taking other medications by mouth; some senna products may affect how other medications work.
- tell your doctor if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel movements lasting more than 2 weeks.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking senna, call your doctor.
- talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking senna if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take senna products over a long period of time because they are not as safe as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.
Senna Dosage
Senna comes as a liquid, powder, granules, chewable pieces, and tablets to take by mouth. It is may be taken once or twice daily. Senna normally causes a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours, so it may be taken at bedtime to produce a bowel movement the next day. Do not take it for more than 1 week without talking to your doctor. Follow the directions on your package or prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take it exactly as directed. Frequent or continued use of senna may make you dependent on laxatives and cause your bowels to lose their normal activity. If you do not have a regular bowel movement after taking senna, do not take any more medication and talk to your doctor.
If you are taking certain senna products (Ex-Lax® regular ormaximum strength tablets or Perdiem Overnight Relief), swallow the pills whole with a glass of water; do not split, chew, or crush them.
Other
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about senna.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
