Senokot uses. Senokot-S: Uses, Side Effects, and Dosage for Constipation Relief
How does Senokot-S work to relieve constipation. What are the potential side effects of using Senokot-S. How should Senokot-S be taken for optimal results. When should you consult a doctor while using Senokot-S.
Understanding Senokot-S: A Dual-Action Constipation Relief
Senokot-S is a combination medication designed to provide effective relief from constipation. This product contains two active ingredients: sennosides and docusate. Each component plays a unique role in alleviating constipation symptoms, making Senokot-S a comprehensive solution for those struggling with irregular bowel movements.
How do the ingredients in Senokot-S work?
Sennosides, classified as stimulant laxatives, function by retaining water in the intestines. This increased water retention stimulates intestinal movement, promoting bowel regularity. Docusate, on the other hand, acts as a stool softener. It increases the water content in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. The combined action of these two ingredients addresses both the frequency and consistency aspects of constipation.
Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines for Senokot-S
To ensure the safe and effective use of Senokot-S, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage guidelines. The medication should be taken orally with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters). While specific dosage instructions may vary, it’s essential to adhere to your doctor’s recommendations or the directions provided on the product package if you’re self-treating.
Can the dosage of Senokot-S be adjusted?
The appropriate dosage of Senokot-S is determined based on several factors, including age, medical condition, and individual response to treatment. It’s important to note that increasing the dose or taking the medication more frequently than directed is not recommended. Overuse of Senokot-S can lead to serious side effects.
How long should Senokot-S be used?
Unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional, Senokot-S should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days. Prolonged use without medical supervision may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While Senokot-S is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects may include:
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
These effects are typically mild and transient. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
Are there any unique side effects associated with Senokot-S?
One notable effect of Senokot-S is that it may cause urine to turn reddish-brown. This discoloration is harmless and will cease once the medication is discontinued. It’s important not to confuse this benign effect with more serious symptoms that may require medical attention.
When should you seek immediate medical attention while using Senokot-S?
While serious side effects are rare, it’s crucial to be vigilant and seek prompt medical care if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Decreased urination
- Mental or mood changes, such as confusion
Additionally, although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Senokot-S is possible. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Important Precautions and Interactions
Before starting Senokot-S, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you may have, particularly to senna, sennosides, or docusate. Additionally, disclose your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of:
- Appendicitis or symptoms resembling appendicitis
- Sudden changes in bowel habits lasting more than two weeks
- Rectal bleeding
- Intestinal blockage
Is Senokot-S safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
If you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before using Senokot-S. Long-term use during pregnancy is not recommended. While the medication does pass into breast milk, it’s generally considered unlikely to harm a nursing infant. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any medication while breastfeeding.
Can Senokot-S interact with other medications?
Senokot-S may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. One notable interaction is with mineral oil. To ensure your safety, always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.
Recognizing and Responding to Overdose
While following the recommended dosage guidelines significantly reduces the risk, it’s important to be aware of potential overdose symptoms. These may include:
- Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe stomach or abdominal pain
If you suspect an overdose, especially if accompanied by serious symptoms such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention immediately. In the United States, contact the local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should contact their provincial poison control center.
Maximizing the Benefits of Senokot-S
To optimize the effectiveness of Senokot-S and minimize potential risks, consider the following tips:
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Incorporate fiber-rich foods into your diet to support regular bowel movements.
- Engage in regular physical activity, which can help stimulate bowel function.
- Use Senokot-S as a short-term solution while addressing underlying causes of constipation.
- Monitor your body’s response to the medication and report any concerns to your healthcare provider.
When should you consider alternative treatments for constipation?
If Senokot-S doesn’t provide relief after several days of use, or if you find yourself relying on it frequently, it may be time to explore alternative treatments. Chronic constipation could be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider to discuss other options, which may include lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, or alternative medications.
Understanding the Role of Senokot-S in Overall Digestive Health
While Senokot-S can be an effective tool for managing constipation, it’s important to view it as part of a broader approach to digestive health. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress can all contribute to regular bowel function. Senokot-S should be seen as a temporary aid rather than a long-term solution for chronic constipation.
How can you prevent constipation naturally?
Incorporating the following habits into your daily routine can help prevent constipation and reduce your reliance on laxatives:
- Eat a diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Establish a consistent bathroom routine
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
- Avoid holding in bowel movements when you feel the urge
By adopting these habits, you may find that your need for constipation relief medications like Senokot-S decreases over time.
Navigating Senokot-S Use in Special Populations
While Senokot-S is generally safe for most adults, certain populations may require special considerations when using this medication. These groups include:
Elderly Patients
Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Senokot-S and may require lower doses. Additionally, they may be at higher risk for electrolyte imbalances with prolonged use. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended for elderly patients using Senokot-S.
Patients with Chronic Medical Conditions
Individuals with chronic health conditions, particularly those affecting the digestive system, should use Senokot-S under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Conditions that may require special consideration include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Diverticulitis
- Chronic kidney disease
- Liver disease
Children
The safety and efficacy of Senokot-S in children have not been extensively studied. Parents should consult a pediatrician before administering this medication to children, as there may be more appropriate alternatives for managing childhood constipation.
By understanding these special considerations, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions about the use of Senokot-S in various populations, ensuring safe and effective constipation relief.
Senokot-S Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Uses
This product is used to treat constipation. It contains 2 medications: sennosides and docusate. Sennosides are known as stimulant laxatives. They work by keeping water in the intestines, which helps to cause movement of the intestines. Docusate is known as a stool softener. It helps increase the amount of water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
How to use Senokot-S
Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication (see also Side Effects section).
It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
This medication may cause your urine to turn reddish-brown. This effect is harmless and will disappear when the medication is stopped.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to senna, sennosides, or docusate; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum, intestinal blockage.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Using it for long periods during pregnancy is not recommended. Consult your doctor for more details.
This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
A product that may interact with this drug is: mineral oil.
Does Senokot-S interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain or cramping.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.
If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
Senokot-S 8.6 mg-50 mg tablet
Color: orangeShape: roundImprint: P
This medicine is a orange, round, tablet imprinted with “P”.
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Drug Survey
Have you ever purchased Senokot-S?
Yes, In the past 3 months
Yes, In the past 6 months
Yes, In the past year
Haven’t purchased but considering
Don’t plan to purchase
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.
Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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Senokot Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Uses
Sennosides are used to treat constipation. They may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery. Sennosides are known as stimulant laxatives. They work by keeping water in the intestines, which causes movement of the intestines.
How to use Senokot
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the dissolving strips, allow each strip to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication (see also Side Effects section).
It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
This medication may cause your urine to turn reddish-brown. This effect is harmless and will disappear when the medication is stopped.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to senna; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum, intestinal blockage.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Chewable tablets or dissolving strips may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid sugar in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Using it for long periods during pregnancy is not recommended. Consult your doctor for more details.
This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Does Senokot interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain or cramping.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.
If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
Senokot 8.6 mg tablet
Color: brownShape: roundImprint: S
This medicine is a brown, round, tablet imprinted with “S”.
Next
Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.
Available coupons
Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx
Drug Survey
Have you ever purchased Senokot?
Yes, In the past 3 months
Yes, In the past 6 months
Yes, In the past year
Haven’t purchased but considering
Don’t plan to purchase
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.
Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Adult Medication
Share
Provided by Lexicomp ® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.
Trade names: USA
Ex-Lax Maximum Strength [OTC]; Ex Lax [OTC]; Gerikot [OTC]; GoodSense Laxative Pills [OTC]; GoodSense Senna Laxative [OTC]; OneLAX Senna [OTC]; Perdiem Overnight Relief [OTC]; Senna Laxative [OTC]; Senna Smooth [OTC]; Senna-GRX [OTC] [DSC]; Senna-Lax [OTC]; Senna-Tabs [OTC]; Senna Time [OTC]; Sennazone [OTC]; Senno [OTC] [DSC]; Senokot Extra Strength [OTC]; Senokot Laxative Gummies [OTC]; Senokot [OTC]
What is this drug used for?
- This drug is used to treat constipation.
What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?
- If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
- If you have any of the following health problems: bowel obstruction, abdominal pain, nausea, rectal bleeding, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits that persist for more than 2 weeks.
This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.
What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?
- Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
- Do not use this drug for more than 1 week unless directed to do so by your doctor.
- Do not use other laxatives or stool softeners unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- If you have rectal bleeding or have no bowel movements after taking this drug, talk with your doctor.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.
What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?
WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
What are some other side effects of this drug?
Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Talk to your doctor or get medical help if these or any other side effects bother you or don’t go away:
- Pain or cramps in the abdomen.
This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.
You can report side effects to the National Health Board.
You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
What is the best way to take this drug?
Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.
All forms:
- Do not take other medicines within 2 hours of taking this drug.
- When taken once a day, take this medication 30 minutes before bedtime.
Liquid:
- Some of these medicines need to be shaken before use. Make sure you know exactly if this drug needs to be shaken before use.
- Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medicine. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.
Chewable:
- Chew thoroughly before swallowing.
Tablets and capsules:
- Swallow whole. Do not chew, break or crush.
- Take this drug with a full glass of water.
What if I miss a dose of a drug?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you can.
- If it’s time for your next dose, don’t take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
How do I store and/or discard this drug?
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep out of the heat.
- Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
General information about medicines
- If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
- Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have any questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability
This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.
Last revision date
2022-06-17
Copyright
© UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors, 2023. All rights reserved.
Date last updated
Monday, December 12, 2022
Senna: Pediatric Medication | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Pediatric Medicine
Share
This document provided by Lexicomp ® contains all the information you need to know about the drug, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when you should contact your healthcare provider.
Trade names: USA
Ex-Lax Maximum Strength [OTC]; Ex Lax [OTC]; Gerikot [OTC]; GoodSense Laxative Pills [OTC]; GoodSense Senna Laxative [OTC]; OneLAX Senna [OTC]; Perdiem Overnight Relief [OTC]; Senna Laxative [OTC]; Senna Smooth [OTC]; Senna-GRX [OTC] [DSC]; Senna-Lax [OTC]; Senna-Tabs [OTC]; Senna Time [OTC]; Sennazone [OTC]; Senno [OTC] [DSC]; Senokot Extra Strength [OTC]; Senokot Laxative Gummies [OTC]; Senokot [OTC]
What is this drug used for?
- This drug is used to treat constipation.
What do I need to tell the doctor BEFORE my child takes this drug?
- If your child has an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell the doctor about the allergy and how it manifested itself in the child.
- If your child has any of the following health problems: Bowel obstruction, abdominal pain, nausea, rectal bleeding, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits that persist for more than 2 weeks.
This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines your child is taking (prescription and over-the-counter, natural, and vitamins) and any health problems. You need to make sure that this drug is safe to use for your child’s illnesses and in combination with other drugs he or she is already taking. Do not start, stop taking, or change the dosage of any drug your child is taking without the doctor’s approval.
What do I need to know or do while my child is taking this drug?
- Tell all health care providers who care for your child that your child is taking this drug. These are your child’s doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
- Do not give this drug for more than 1 week unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
- Do not give your child other laxatives or stool softeners unless recommended by their doctor.
- If your child has rectal bleeding or has no bowel movements after using this drug, talk with your child’s doctor.
If your daughter is pregnant or breastfeeding:
- Consult physician if your daughter is pregnant, pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for your daughter and her baby will need to be discussed.
What side effects should I report to my child’s doctor right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Although rare, some people may have very serious and sometimes deadly side effects of this drug. Call your child’s doctor right away or get medical help if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
What are some other side effects of this drug?
Any drug can cause side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your child’s doctor or seek medical attention if any of these or other side effects bother your child or if they persist:
- Pain or cramps in the abdomen.
This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, ask your child’s doctor. Talk to your child’s doctor about side effects.
You can report side effects to the National Health Board.
What is the best way to give this drug?
Give this drug to your child as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.
All forms:
- Do not give other medicines within 2 hours of taking this drug.
- If your child takes medicine once a day, give it at bedtime.
Liquid:
- Some of these medicines need to be shaken before use. Make sure you know exactly if this drug needs to be shaken before use.
- Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medicine. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.
Chewable:
- Make sure that the child chews the drug thoroughly before swallowing.
Tablets and capsules:
- Ask your child to swallow whole. Ask your child not to chew, break, or crush the tablet.
- Give this drug with a full glass of water.
What if my child misses a dose of medication?
- Give the missed dose as soon as possible.
- If it is time for your child to take the next dose, do not take the missed dose and then go back to your child’s normal schedule.
- Do not give a double dose at the same time or additional doses.
How do I store and/or discard this drug?
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep out of the heat.
- Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
General information about medicines
- If your child’s symptoms or health problems do not improve, or worsen, contact your child’s doctor.
- Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your child’s doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability
This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient.