USE OF SENNA/SENNOSIDES AS LAXATIVE

How much is usually taken? It’s best to follow the instructions on the label of over-the-counter senna products. Some doctors suggest an herbal extract in capsules or tablets providing 20–60 mg of sennosides per day. This can be continued for a maximum of ten days maximum. Use beyond ten days is strongly discouraged. If constipation is not alleviated within ten days, individuals should seek the help of a healthcare professional. Combination with herbal mint teas can help decrease cramping. Half the adult amount of senna can be safely used in children over the age of six.

Presentation:
Tablets: Enteric-Coated or Uncoated containing 37.5 to 90 mg of Calcium Sennosides equivalent to 7.5 to 18 mg of Hydroxyanthracene glucosides as Sennoside B per tablet

Powders: With or without other components like Isabgol, Cascara sagrada etc. containing raw powdered herb or Calcium Sennosides equivalent to 5 to 30 mg of Hydroxyanthracene glucosides as Sennoside B per dose

Liquids: Syrup or fluid extract with or without alcohol containing 5 to 30 mg of Hydroxyanthracene glucosides as Sennoside B per dose

Others: Also presented in the form of herbal teas, chocolate pieces

How to take:
Tablet--Swallow with liquid. If you can't swallow whole, chew or crumble tablet and take with liquid or food.
Liquid, granules--Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water each day, in addition to one taken with each dose.
Suppositories--Remove wrapper and moisten suppository with water. Gently insert larger end into rectum. Push well into rectum with finger.

When to take:
Usually at bedtime with a snack, unless directed otherwise.

If you forget a dose:
Take as soon as you remember.

What drug does:
Acts on smooth muscles of intestine wall to cause vigorous bowel movement.

Time lapse before drug works:
6 to 10 hours.

Don't take with:
Don't take within 2 hours of taking another medicine. Laxative interferes with medicine absorption.