From the Guidelines
Senokot should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as it contains senna, a natural stimulant laxative that can cause dependence and electrolyte imbalances with long-term use. The typical adult dose is 1-2 tablets (8.6-17.2 mg sennosides) taken orally at bedtime, with results usually occurring within 6-12 hours 1. For occasional constipation, Senokot should be used for no more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a healthcare provider. It is essential to drink plenty of water when taking this medication to help prevent dehydration. Senokot works by stimulating the intestinal muscles to contract, moving stool through the colon more quickly, and increasing fluid secretion in the intestines, softening the stool.
Some key points to consider when using Senokot include:
- Side effects may include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or discoloration of urine
- Senokot should be avoided if you have abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a suspected intestinal blockage
- Long-term use can lead to dependence and electrolyte imbalances, so it's best used short-term while implementing lifestyle changes like increased fiber intake, hydration, and physical activity for long-term constipation management
- Other treatment options, such as osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, lactulose) or stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl, sodium picosulfate), may be considered based on individual patient needs and medical history 1.
It is crucial to prioritize lifestyle changes, such as increased fiber intake, hydration, and physical activity, for long-term constipation management, rather than relying solely on laxatives like Senokot. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions, such as renal impairment, should use magnesium and sulfate salts with caution, as they can lead to hypermagnesaemia 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Senekot Information
- Senekot is a type of laxative, but the provided study does not directly mention it 2
- The study focuses on the laxative effects of wheat bran and psyllium in treating chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) 2
- It is noted that not all fibers have a laxative effect, and some may even be constipating 2
Fiber and Constipation
- The study found that nonfermented gel-forming psyllium was more effective than insoluble wheat bran in increasing stool output in patients with CIC 2
- Both psyllium and coarse wheat bran increased stool water content, having a stool-softening effect, while finely ground wheat bran had a stool-hardening effect 2
- The study suggests that treatment guidelines for CIC should make specific evidence-based recommendations regarding fiber, rather than a generic recommendation to "increase fiber intake" 2