Tablets, granules, oral solution, syrup
For short-term treatment of constipation.
Senna stimulates water and electrolyte (Mineral salt) secretion in the intestine to induce defecation.
Adults and teenagers: 2 tablets, or 1 teaspoon of granules, or 10 to 15 ml of syrup. Children ages 6 to 12: 1 tablet or 1/2 teaspoon of granules. The medicine should be given at bedtime.
Within 6 to 10 hours.
Variable.
Each dose of senna should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass (8 oz) of water or fruit juice.
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosage schedule. Do not double the next dose.
Take senna as prescribed for the full treatment period. However, you may stop taking the drug if you are feeling better before the scheduled end of therapy.
If regular bowel movement does not resume in 1 week, discontinue use of senna and consult your doctor.
Adverse reactions may be more likely and more severe in older patients.
Do not drive or engage in hazardous work until you determine how the medicine affects you.
Avoid alcohol.
Senna may cause unwanted effects during pregnancy if not used properly. Consult your doctor for specific advice.
Senna may pass into breast milk; caution is advised. Consult your doctor for advice.
Senna is not recommended for use by children under the age of 6 unless it has been prescribed by a doctor.
You should increase your intake of foods containing Vitamin D, such as milk products, and maintain an adequate intake of foods containing folic acid, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and liver, while taking senna. Do not take any other medicine within 2 hours of taking senna. Senna is one of the most effective laxatives for relieving constipation caused by narcotic analgesics like morphine and codeine.
Sudden vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, or cramping.
An overdose of senna is unlikely to be life-threatening. However, if someone takes a much larger dose than prescribed, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately.
Consult your doctor for specific advice if you are taking anticoagulants, digitalis drugs, ciprofloxacin, etidronate, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, or oral tetracyclines.
No known food interactions.
Caution is advised when taking senna. Consult your doctor if you have a history of any of the following: appendicitis, rectal bleeding of unknown cause, colostomy, intestinal blockage, ileostomy, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or difficulty swallowing.
