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Senna

  • Senna should only be used for a short time.
  • See a doctor if your bowel function hasn't returned after three days of taking senna.

About senna

Type of medicineStimulant laxative
Used forConstipation
Also calledSenokot®
Manevac® (with ispaghula)
Available asGranules, oral solution, tablets

Senna works by encouraging the bowel to contract and move the waste products along the bowel, helping you to go to the toilet.

Constipation can be caused by a poor diet, not drinking enough water and not going to the toilet as soon as you feel you need to. Pregnancy, a lack of exercise or movement (such as being ill in bed) and some medicines, including some pain killers, can also cause constipation.

Many people take laxatives when they do not need to because they believe that they have to go to the toilet every day. This is not the case. Constipation is the term used to describe the condition when the stools that are passed are hard and less frequent than normal.

A healthy diet containing fibre (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit and green leafy vegetables) with 6 to 8 full glasses of water each day and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function.

Drinks containing caffeine (tea, coffee, colas) or alcohol can make constipation worse as they have a diuretic effect, which means they cause a loss of fluid from the body.

Before taking senna

Before taking senna make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have been constipated for more than one week, with or without tummy discomfort and pain.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

  • Important: senna should only be given to children when recommended by a healthcare professional.

How to take senna

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Senna should only be used for a short time. This is because the bowel can start to rely on this type of laxative to make it work rather than working on it's own.
  • Senna usually takes 8-12 hours before it has an effect.
  • Adults should take their dose of senna in the evening. This can be repeated each day until the bowel function returns to normal, but if this is longer than 3 days, see a doctor.
  • Children should be given their dose of senna in the morning or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
  • Manevac® granules should be swallowed with water or a warm drink. The granules swell in contact with liquid so evening doses should be taken at supper time and not immediately before going to bed.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Try to eat a well-balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can senna cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Tummy cramps and pain.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store senna

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Senokot® Syrup, Britannia Pharmaceuticals Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Leaflet prepared June 2005, accessed 18 May 2008.
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Senokot® Tablets, Britannia Pharmaceuticals Ltd, electronic medicines Compendium. Leaflet prepared June 2005, accessed 18 May 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
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dils2783		Last Reviewed:
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