Senna
Alternative Medicine
The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine. For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the Healthwise Knowledgebase.
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Also indexed as:
Black-Draught, Fletcher's Castoria, Gentlax, Senexon, Senna-Gen, Senokot, Senolax
Senna is a laxative used for short-term treatment of constipation. It is available as nonprescription drugs and as herbal products.
Herbs
Summary of Interactions for Senna
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Adverse interaction |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Supportive interaction |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
| Other (see text) |
Digitalis
Potassium
Sodium |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary
indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary,
and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Supplements
Sodium and potassium
Overuse or misuse of laxatives, including senna, can cause water, sodium, and potassium depletion.1 To avoid depletion problems, people should limit laxative use, including senna, to one week or less.2
Interactions with Herbs
Digitalis (Digitalis lanata, Digitalis purpurea)
Digitalis refers to a family of plants commonly called foxglove that contain digitalis glycosides, chemicals with actions and toxicities similar to the prescription drug digoxin. While the interaction has not been reported, overuse or misuse of senna (leading to potassium loss) may increase digitalis effects and risk of side effects.3 Senna and digitalis-containing products should be used only under the direct supervision of a doctor trained in their use.
References
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Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 318a-9.
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Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 318a-9
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Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 244.
Last Review: 01-21-2009
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
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