Senna helps relieve constipation and maintain regularity of bowel movement.
It belongs to a group of medicines called stimulant laxatives. Senna increases bowel movement by stimulating the muscles of the bowel.
Take Senna exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it preferably at bedtime.
This medicine is available as a conventional tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, or syrup.
If you are taking the chewable tablet, it should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.
If you are taking an oral syrup, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
You may stop taking this medicine when you are no longer constipated.
Do not take this medicine for more than 1 week unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- lack of normal muscle tone or strength in the colon
- inflammation of the appendix
- persistent or undiagnosed abdominal problem e.g. pain, nausea, vomiting
- inflammatory bowel diseases e.g. Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis
- blockage or narrowing of the stomach or bowel
- severely dehydrated
as Senna may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have experienced a sudden change in your bowel movements that has lasted for more than 2 weeks before taking Senna.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child or the elderly. Children or elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not switch between different brands or drug formulations unless advised by your doctor.
If you develop rectal bleeding or fail to have a bowel movement after taking this medicine, stop taking it and inform your doctor immediately.
What lifestyle changes can I make to prevent constipation?
You can adapt some of the following lifestyle changes to help prevent constipation:
- Include high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole-grain cereals and bread in your diet. Add fibre to your diet gradually to help reduce gas and bloating.
- Drink plenty of liquids. Limit caffeine intake, which may worsen symptoms of constipation by causing dehydration.
- Be active and exercise regularly.
- Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Senna may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain or cramps, and dark-coloured urine.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop taking this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- water pills or medicines for water retention
- anti-inflammatory medicines
It is recommended to take Senna at least 2 hours before or after taking other medicines.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
