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.
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. Shake the
container well before each 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.
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.
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, liquid products, 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
breastfeeding.
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.
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. 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.