General MedicineOTC AvailablePregnancy Cat. Not classifiedFDA Yes
Senna Syrup
SENNOSIDES A AND B
Uses • relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) • generally causes bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours
Medically reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board, Licensed Pharmacists & Physicians ·
Brand names:SENNA Syrup
Quick Reference
Medicine ClassGeneral Medicine
FDA ApprovedYes
PregnancyCategory Not classified
Quick Facts
- Active ingredient
- SENNOSIDES A AND B
- Medicine class
- General Medicine
- Brand names
- SENNA Syrup
- Availability
- Over-the-counter (OTC)
- Pregnancy category
- Not classified
- FDA approved
- Yes
What Is Senna Syrup?
Uses • relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) • generally causes bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours
Senna Syrup (SENNOSIDES A AND B) belongs to the General Medicine class of medications. It was first approved by the FDA in Yes. This medication is available over-the-counter without a prescription.
Key Safety Information
- •Always follow the dose recommended by your healthcare professional. Taking more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects including serious complications.
- •Seek emergency care if you experience signs of an allergic reaction — hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash. Stop the medication and call your doctor immediately.
- •Some medications can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, a history of heart attack or stroke, or any pre-existing health condition.
- •Avoid or limit alcohol while taking Senna Syrup. Do not drink alcohol without first discussing it with your healthcare provider as it may increase adverse effects.
- •Take Senna Syrup with food or a full glass of water if stomach upset occurs. Stop use and talk to your doctor if you experience persistent stomach pain or GI symptoms.
- •Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. Some combinations significantly increase the risk of harm.
This is a summary only. Always read the full prescribing information and consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Uses & Indications
Senna Syrup is prescribed for the following conditions. Some uses are FDA-approved indications; others may be evidence-based off-label uses. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Uses • relieves occasional constipation (irregularity) • generally causes bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours
Dosage Guide
The following are general dosing guidelines only. Your actual dose should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition, renal/hepatic function, and other medications.
AD
Adult Dosage
Directions • shake well before use • take preferably at bedtime or as directed by a doctor Age Starting Dose Maximum dosage adults and children 12 years and older 2-3 teaspoonfuls once a day 3 teaspoonfuls twice a day 6 years to under 12 years of age 1-1½ teaspoonfuls once a day 1½ teaspoonfuls twice a day 2 to under 6 years of age 1/2-3/4 teaspoon once a day 3/4 teaspoon twice a day under 2 years of age ask a doctor ask a doctor
Available Forms
Available Strengths
Side Effects
Common
Serious
- Warnings Do not use • laxative products for longer than 1 week unless directed by a doctor Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have • stomach pain • nausea • vomiting • notice a sudden change in bowel movement that continues over a period of 2 weeks Stop use and ask a doctor if you have rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of laxative.
- These may indicate a serious condition If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use
Rare
Medicine Interactions
Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about ALL medications you take, including prescriptions, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
MajorModerateMinor
Warnings & Contraindications
Warnings Do not use • laxative products for longer than 1 week unless directed by a doctor Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have • stomach pain • nausea • vomiting • notice a sudden change in bowel movement that continues over a period of 2 weeks Stop use and ask a doctor if you have rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of laxative. These may indicate a serious
How Senna Syrup Works
Pharmacokinetics
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Not classified
Breastfeeding
Many medications pass into breast milk in varying amounts. Before using Senna Syrupwhile breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider or pharmacist — they can weigh your dose, your infant's age, and available lactation safety data to find the safest option for you and your baby.
Storage & Handling
Other information • Store at room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) TAMPER EVIDENT: Do not use this product if breakaway band on cap is broken or missing
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Detail
Senna Syrup dosage guide
Adult, pediatric, renal, and hepatic dosing for Senna Syrup
- Detail
Senna Syrup side effects
Complete adverse effect profile including common, serious, and rare reactions
Sources & References
- • FDA Prescribing Information — Official labeling and package insert for Senna Syrup
- • U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus drug information
- • American Hospital Formulary Service (AHFS) — Clinical pharmacology monograph
- • PubMed / MEDLINE — View clinical studies
Last reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board · MedCentralHub Editorial Policy
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.