Generic
Sennosides (Senna)
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Sennosides (Senna) are plant-derived laxatives used for constipation and bowel evacuation. They increase intestinal motility through the release of active anthraquinones by colonic bacteria.
Description
Sennosides A and B are active compounds derived from the senna plant. They are converted by colonic bacteria into active anthraquinones, which stimulate intestinal muscle contractions and facilitate bowel movements. They are used for short-term treatment of constipation and bowel preparation.
Indications
- Constipation
- Bowel evacuation (pre-procedure)
Therapeutic class
Laxatives
Pharmacological class
Stimulant Laxative
Pharmacology
Sennosides are converted by colonic bacteria into active anthraquinones, which stimulate intestinal muscle contractions and increase intestinal motility. They increase water and electrolyte secretion in the large intestine, softening stool and facilitating bowel movements.
Mechanism of action
Stimulates intestinal muscle contractions to facilitate bowel movements.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Constipation: 15-30 mg (as total sennosides) 1-2 times daily
- Bowel evacuation: 105-157.5 mg of sennosides on the day before procedure (as liquid preparation)
Pediatric Dose (Oral):
- 2-6 years: 3.75-7.5 mg once daily in the morning
- 6-12 years: 7.5-15 mg once daily at night or in the morning
- >12 years: 15-30 mg at bedtime
Administration
- Take orally
- It is better to take at a fixed time each day
- Use short-term as prescribed by your doctor
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Mild abdominal discomfort (colic and cramps)
- Diarrhea
- Prolonged use: Hypokalemia and atonic colon
- Chronic use: Reversible melanosis coli
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in inflammatory bowel disease
- Avoid prolonged use (dependence and electrolyte imbalance)
- Do not use in undiagnosed abdominal pain
Contraindications
- Nausea or vomiting
- Undiagnosed abdominal pain
- Intestinal obstruction
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions known.
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Sennosides; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Adequate information not available; use short-term under medical supervision; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Adequate information not available; use with caution; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Indicated for children (weight and age-based dosing)
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly (electrolyte imbalance risk)
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution needed in kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution needed in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause severe diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance; consult your doctor.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Sennosides