Senna Uses

The senna plant contains a natural vegetable laxative ingredient. Taking purified senna (standardized senna concentrate) that has been extracted from this plant produces a bowel movement 6-12 hours later. Senna is therefore used for gentle overnight relief of occasional constipation. It can also be used to empty the bowels before surgery. 

There may be other uses for senna laxative tablets. Your health professional or pharmacist can give you further drug information.

Senna Mechanism of Action

The active ingredient in senna stimulates the intestines and causes a bowel movement by increasing intestinal activity.

Senna Doses

Senna is available as extra strength and regular strength tablets in dosages of 8.6 mg, 15 mg, and 25 mg. It is available in various dosage forms, such as tablets, chewable tablets, liquid, powder, and granules. The usual dose of senna is as follows:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and older: Starting dose 2 tablets once a day. Maximum dose 4 tablets twice a day.
• Children between 6 and 11 years of age: Starting dose 1 tablet once a day. Maximum dose 2 tablets twice a day.
• Children between 2 and 5 years of age: Starting dose half tablet once a day. Maximum dose 1 tablet twice a day.
• Children younger than 2 years of age: Ask a doctor before giving Ex-Lax (senna) or another stool softener.