Larger doses have been used to treat/prevent opioid-induced constipation. Consult labeling of individual OTC products for more specific dosing information
PO (Adults ): 17.2–50 mg 1–2 times daily.
PO (Children 12–17 yr): 17.6–26.4 mg 1–2 times daily
PO (Children 6–11 yr): 8.8–13.2 mg 1–2 times daily.
PO (Children 2–6 yr): 4.4–6.6 mg 1–2 times daily.
US Brand Names⬆⬇
Ex-Lax, Senokot
Action⬆⬇
Active components of senna (sennosides) alter water and electrolyte transport in the large intestine, resulting in accumulation of water and increased peristalsis.
Therapeutic effects:
Laxative action.
Classifications⬆⬇
Therapeutic Classification: laxatives
Pharmacologic Classification: stimulant laxatives
Pharmacokinetics⬆⬇
Absorption: Minimally absorbed following oral administration.
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism/Excretion: Unknown.
Half-Life: Unknown.
Time/Action Profile⬆⬇
(laxative effect)
ROUTE
ONSET
PEAK
DURATION
PO
6–12 hr‡
unknown
3–4 days
‡May take as long as 24 hr.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Advise patient that laxatives should be used only for short-term therapy. Long-term therapy may cause electrolyte imbalance and dependence.
Encourage patient to use other forms of bowel regulation, such as increasing bulk in the diet, increasing fluid intake, and increasing mobility. Normal bowel habits are individualized and may vary from 3 times/day to 3 times/wk.
Inform patient that this medication may cause a change in urine color to pink, red, violet, yellow, or brown.
Instruct patients with cardiac disease to avoid straining during bowel movements (Valsalva maneuver).
Advise patient not to use laxatives when abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever is present.
Rep: Advise females of reproductive potential to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected.