Senokot 7.5mg Tablets for Constipation Relief (20)
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Product Summary
Effective treatment for occasional or milder cases of constipation. It contains senna, which naturally controls and calms the situation so you can get on with your life without any irritation or uncomfortable moments.
Directions
- Take ONE or TWO tablets daily with a glass of water, preferably at night.
- This is in order to allow the tablets to work overnight, as they can take up to 8 hours to work.
- The tablets may also be used during the day instead.
Ingredients
- Each tablet contains powdered Alexandrian Senna fruit (pods) (Cassia senna L. (C.acutifolia Delile)) and Tinnevelly Senna fruit (pods) (Cassia Angustifolia Vahl) equivalent to 15mg hydroxyanthracene glycosides, calculated as sennoside B.
- Also contains calcium phosphate, maize starch, magnesium stearate and lactose monohydrate.
Warnings and Restrictions
The tablets work by gently stimulating the gastrointestinal tract to contract to allow movement of stools. This can sometimes lead to abdominal cramping in some patients.
It is, therefore, not recommended to take this product while pregnant due to the possibility of abdominal cramping. You should, therefore, consult your doctor before use.
If laxatives are needed every day or there are persistent abdominal pains, consult your doctor.
Do not take this product if you are under 18 years of age unless advised by a medical professional.
Keep out of reach of children.
You should carefully read all product packaging and labels prior to use.
Taking other medicines
Senokot is unlikely to interact with other medication. However, if you suffer from any other bowel conditions, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
FAQs Answered by our Pharmacists – Senokot Constipation Relief Tablets
What are senna-based laxatives and how do they work in the body?
Senna-based laxatives like Senokot contain natural compounds known as sennosides, which stimulate the muscles in your bowel to help move stool along. These compounds work in the large intestine by triggering contractions that help push waste out. This process can take about 6–12 hours, which is why it's recommended to take Senokot at night for relief by morning.
Can Senokot be used safely for chronic constipation?
Senokot is designed for short-term use only. Using stimulant laxatives like senna regularly or for long periods can cause your bowel to become dependent, meaning it won’t work properly without the laxative. If you're constipated most days or need to take laxatives frequently, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to investigate the cause and find safer, long-term solutions.
Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while using Senokot?
There are no specific foods or drinks that must be avoided while taking Senokot. However, it's best to support the treatment with a healthy diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water. Avoiding processed foods and cutting down on caffeine can also help improve bowel regularity naturally.
What should I do if Senokot doesn't relieve my constipation?
If you’ve taken the correct dose and haven’t had a bowel movement within 12 hours, you may wait until the next day to try again. If there’s still no relief after three consecutive days, or if you feel bloated, nauseous, or in pain, stop taking the tablets and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor. You may need a different type of laxative or medical evaluation for your symptoms.
Can I take Senokot if I have other health conditions?
Senokot is generally safe for many people, but if you have conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or if you are recovering from recent bowel surgery, speak with your pharmacist or doctor first. Senna may worsen some symptoms or interact with certain medications used for chronic illnesses.
Are there alternatives to senna for constipation relief?
Yes, there are other types of laxatives available. Options include bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium husk, osmotic laxatives such as lactulose or macrogol, and stool softeners like docusate. These may be more suitable if you need gentle or longer-term relief. Always ask a pharmacist which is best for your situation.
Can I build tolerance to Senokot over time?
Yes, overuse of stimulant laxatives like senna can lead to tolerance, where the same dose becomes less effective. Long-term use may also reduce your bowel’s natural ability to move waste. It’s best to use Senokot for no more than 7 days at a time, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Senna-based laxatives like Senokot contain natural compounds known as sennosides, which stimulate the muscles in your bowel to help move stool along. These compounds work in the large intestine by triggering contractions that help push waste out. This process can take about 6–12 hours, which is why it's recommended to take Senokot at night for relief by morning.
Senokot is designed for short-term use only. Using stimulant laxatives like senna regularly or for long periods can cause your bowel to become dependent, meaning it won’t work properly without the laxative. If you're constipated most days or need to take laxatives frequently, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to investigate the cause and find safer, long-term solutions.
There are no specific foods or drinks that must be avoided while taking Senokot. However, it's best to support the treatment with a healthy diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water. Avoiding processed foods and cutting down on caffeine can also help improve bowel regularity naturally.
If you’ve taken the correct dose and haven’t had a bowel movement within 12 hours, you may wait until the next day to try again. If there’s still no relief after three consecutive days, or if you feel bloated, nauseous, or in pain, stop taking the tablets and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor. You may need a different type of laxative or medical evaluation for your symptoms.
Senokot is generally safe for many people, but if you have conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or if you are recovering from recent bowel surgery, speak with your pharmacist or doctor first. Senna may worsen some symptoms or interact with certain medications used for chronic illnesses.
Yes, there are other types of laxatives available. Options include bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium husk, osmotic laxatives such as lactulose or macrogol, and stool softeners like docusate. These may be more suitable if you need gentle or longer-term relief. Always ask a pharmacist which is best for your situation.
Yes, overuse of stimulant laxatives like senna can lead to tolerance, where the same dose becomes less effective. Long-term use may also reduce your bowel’s natural ability to move waste. It’s best to use Senokot for no more than 7 days at a time, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.