Senna suppositories
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What are senna suppositories?
SENNA (Senokot®) is a stimulant laxative that can relieve constipation; empty and prepare the bowel for surgery or examination. Senna suppositories are available without a prescription.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions
• appendicitis
• diabetes
• severe constipation
• stomach pain or blockage
• vomiting
• an unusual or allergic reaction to senna, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Senna suppositories are put into the rectum (back passage). Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands. Take off the foil wrapping. Wet the tip of the suppository with water to make it easier to use. Lie on your side and raise your knee to your chest. Using your finger, gently push the suppository into the rectum. Hold it in place for a few minutes. Wash your hands. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply if you are using senna before surgery or an examination procedure. If you are using senna regularly and miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. Do not use regularly for more than one week.What drug(s) may interact with senna?
There are none known.
What should I watch for while taking senna?
Do not use for more than one week without advice from your prescriber or health care professional. Senna can be habit-forming. Long-term use can make your body depend on the laxative for regular bowel movements. Long-term use can damage the bowel, cause malnutrition, and problems with the amounts of water and salts in your body. If your constipation keeps returning, check with your prescriber or health care professional.
If the senna suppository is too soft to use, chill it in the refrigerator before taking off the wrapper.
Always drink plenty of water while using senna.
What side effects may I notice from taking senna?
The most serious side effect is overuse, which can cause dependence on the laxative.
Other side effects with senna include
• bloating
• diarrhea
• discolored urine (do not be alarmed this is not serious)
• lower stomach discomfort or cramps
• muscle weakness
• skin irritation around the rectal area
• unusual tiredness
• unusual weight loss
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
