.
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.
Interactions with Dietary 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.
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 |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 318a–9.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991, 318a–9
3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 244.
Copyright © 2002 VitaminLore, Inc. All rights reserved. www.VitaminLore.com
Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.
Click here Buy Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements at very low prices..
Buy Brand name Vitamins for less from www.vitaminlore.com. Safetychecker.
The information presented in VitaminLore 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.