What it is used for
- Short-term relief of constipation
- Clearing the bowel before some examinations (under guidance)
How it works
Senna is a plant-derived stimulant laxative that prompts the muscles of the bowel to contract more, moving stool along and producing a bowel movement, usually overnight.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, granules, and oral liquid. It is taken by mouth, often in the evening so it works the next morning. Take it exactly as the label or your clinician directs, and use it only for short periods unless advised otherwise.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Stomach cramps
- Wind
- Harmless reddish-brown discolouration of urine
- Loose stools
Serious effects — get help
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Ongoing diarrhea with dehydration or salt imbalance
- Rectal bleeding
- Signs of dependence or worsening constipation with prolonged misuse
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Medicines affected by low potassium (some heart drugs like digoxin)
- Diuretics (water tablets) and corticosteroids (added potassium-lowering effect)
- Other laxatives
Who should take care
- For short-term use; long-term reliance can worsen bowel function and lower potassium
- Avoid if you have a bowel blockage, severe abdominal pain of unknown cause, or certain inflammatory bowel conditions in flare
- Discuss use in pregnancy and breastfeeding with a pharmacist
- Not generally for young children without advice
- See a clinician if constipation is ongoing or you have unexplained changes in bowel habit