Senna
Mechanism :
Senna is an irritant/stimulant laxative used to treat constipation. Senna stimulates/irritates the smooth muscle of the intestines. Water collects in the intestines. This stimulates peristalsis.
Indication :
Contraindications :
Should not be given when any undiagnosed acute or persistent abdominal symptoms are present.
Dosing :
2-6 years:
4.3-17.2 mg/day PO; maximum dose: 17.2 mg/day.
6-12 years:
6-50 mg/day PO; maximum dose: 50 mg/day.
>12 years:
12-100 mg/day; maximum dose: 100 mg/day.
Do not use for >1 week.
Adverse Effect :
Loss of normal reflexes to move bowels, melanosis coli, nephritis. Nausea and rectal burning as suppository.
Interaction :
Digoxin (Lanoxin): Senna is a type of laxative called a stimulant laxative. Stimulant laxatives can decrease potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can increase the risk of side effects of digoxin (Lanoxin).
Warfarin (Coumarin): Senna can work as a laxative. In some people senna can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding.
Water pills (Diuretic drugs): Senna is a laxative. Some laxatives can decrease potassium in the body. "Water pills" can also decrease potassium in the body. Taking senna along with "water pills" might decrease potassium in the body too much.
Renal Dose :
Dose in Renal Impairment GFR (mL/min)
| 20-50 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| 10-20 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| <10 | Dose as in normal renal function |
Dose in Patients undergoing Renal Replacement Therapies
| CAPD | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HD | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HDF/High flux | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
| CAV/VVHD | Unknown dialysability. Dose as in normal renal function |
Hepatic Dose :
No dosage adjustments are recommended.