Understanding Senna: A Comprehensive Guide

Names of Medication

Senna is available under the following brand names in the US: Senokot (Senna).

Pharmacologic Category

Senna falls into the pharmacologic category of stimulant laxatives. Other medications in this category include bisacodyl (Dulcolax), and cascara sagrada.

Dosing

Before we delve into the specifics, it is crucial to remember to never adjust the dose of medication without first consulting your doctor. Here are the common diseases treated by Senna:

Chronic Constipation

Initial dose: 17.2mg orally once daily at bedtime. The dose may be increased to two tablets if necessary. This is typically a short-term treatment lasting up to 1 week.

Occasional Constipation

The usual dosage is 17.2mg orally once daily as needed.

Bowel Preparation before Colonoscopy

The dose for bowel prep is usually 2 tablets orally the night before the procedure.

Opioid-Induced Constipation

For those on opioids, the recommended dosage is 2 tablets orally once daily as needed.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Senna is available in tablet form with strengths of 8.6mg and 17.2mg.

Administration Instructions

Senna should be taken orally with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, it might be helpful to take it with food or milk. The tablet should not be crushed or chewed but swallowed whole.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While Senna is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects. Here are some common adverse reactions, along with their frequency and an explanation of why Senna can cause these side effects:

Abdominal cramping (Common)

Abdominal cramping occurs because Senna stimulates the muscles of the intestine to contract, promoting bowel movements. This increased intestinal activity can cause discomfort or pain.

Diarrhea (Less Common)

Diarrhea is typically a result of excessive intake of Senna. As a stimulant laxative, it increases intestinal motility, which can lead to loose or watery stools if taken in high doses.

Nausea (Rare)

Although rare, nausea can occur due to the increased activity in the digestive tract.

Contraindications to taking Senna

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. Here are some contraindications for Senna:

Bowel obstruction

Senna should not be used in people with a known bowel obstruction. As a stimulant laxative, it works by increasing the movement of the intestines, which can be dangerous and cause further complications in individuals with this condition.

Abdominal pain of unknown origin

If the source of abdominal pain is undetermined, using Senna may exacerbate the issue or mask the symptoms of a potentially serious condition such as appendicitis.

Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance

Senna should not be used in individuals with dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, as it may worsen these conditions by causing a loss of fluids and electrolytes through increased bowel movements.

Drug to Drug Interactions

It is essential to be aware of potential drug interactions with Senna. Some medications that have significant interactions include:
Digoxin (Lanoxin): Using Senna with digoxin may decrease the effectiveness of digoxin due to potential electrolyte imbalances caused by Senna.
Warfarin (Coumadin): Senna may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin, as it can cause diarrhea, leading to reduced absorption of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.

Senna in Pregnancy

Senna is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy when used at the recommended dosage and for short periods. However, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy.

Senna while Breastfeeding

Senna is likely safe to use while breastfeeding when taken in the recommended dosage. Small amounts of Senna can pass into breast milk, but it is unlikely to cause harm to the nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider before using any medication while breastfeeding.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Senna without insurance and using a GoodRx coupon is approximately $10-$20. Keep in mind that these prices are only estimates and may vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.