Senna
Class: laxative – stimulant
Indications: constipation
Contraindications/cautions: acute abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction
Adverse reactions: common: abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, perianal irritation; less common: atonic colon (with prolonged use), hypokalaemia, discolouration of urine (brown or pink)
Metabolism/clearance: not absorbed to a great extent
Interactions:
- decreased antispasmodic effects of antispasmodics e.g. hyoscine butylbromide may occur
| Dosing: | |
|---|---|
| oral: | 2 to 4 tabs (14 to 28 mg) at night with docusate 1 to 2 tabs at night (max. 4 tabs) |
| subcut: | not available |
| rectal: | not available |
Syringe driver: not available
Mechanism of action: stimulates colonic activity via nerves in the intestinal mucosa. May also have stool softening properties
Onset: 6 to 12 hours
Notes:
- may be useful in opioid induced constipation.
- usually used with docusate (Laxsol)