What is Senokot: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 13, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Senokot overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Alophen, Black Draught, CareALL Senna Laxative, C-Lax, Correctol, Dulcolax, Evac-U-Gen, EX-Lax, Fleet Bisacodyl, Fletcher's Castoria, Gentle Laxative, Geri-Kot, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Castor Oil, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Gentle Laxative, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Laxative

Generic Names:

  • Senna

Uses:

  • Treats constipation by helping you have a bowel movement.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Gastrointestinal Agent, Laxative, Bulk Forming, Laxative, Stimulant, Laxative, Stimulant Combination, Laxative, Stool Softener, Nutriceutical

Forms:

  • Chewable Tablet, Liquid Filled Capsule, Granule, Flake, Liquid, Powder, Tablet, Coated Tablet, Delayed Release Tablet, Capsule

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What form(s) does Senokot come in

  • Chewable Tablet

  • Liquid Filled Capsule

  • Granule

  • Flake

  • Liquid

  • Powder

  • Tablet

  • Coated Tablet

  • Delayed Release Tablet

  • Capsule

What are common Senokot doses?

  • Box 20 Tablets

  • Bottle 50 Tablets

  • Bottle 100 Tablets

Common Senokot prescriptions

  • Senokot
    100 tablets bottle

  • Senokot
    50 tablets bottle

  • Senokot
    20 tablets box

How to take Senokot

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.

  • It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of liquid daily.

  • Swallow the capsule, tablet, or coated tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.

  • The chewable tablet should be completely chewed before you swallow it.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.

  • The granules may be eaten plain, mixed with liquids such as milk, or sprinkled on soft food (such as applesauce or yogurt).

  • You may need to shake the oral liquid before you use it.

  • Dissolve the powder in water or fruit juice, and drink the mixture right away.

  • Swallow the capsule, tablet, or coated tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.

  • The granules may be eaten plain, mixed with liquids such as milk, or sprinkled on soft food (such as applesauce or yogurt).

  • You may need to shake the oral liquid before you use it.

  • The chewable tablet should be completely chewed before you swallow it.

  • Dissolve the powder in water or fruit juice, and drink the mixture right away.

  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.

  • It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of liquid daily.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.

What to do if you miss a dose of Senokot

  • If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.

  • Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Senokot contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any stimulant laxatives, or if you have intestinal blockage, signs of appendicitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting), or rectal bleeding of unknown cause.

Senokot warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.

  • Do not give laxatives to children under 6 years old unless you talk to your doctor.

  • You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

  • Skin rash

  • Weakness or tiredness

Senokot interactions

  • You should not use a laxative within 2 hours before or after taking other medicines.

  • You should not use a laxative containing bisacodyl, such as Dulcolax®, within 1 hour before or after drinking milk or taking an antacid.

  • You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.

Senokot side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Skin rash

  • Weakness or tiredness

  • Confusion

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Muscle aches

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Diarrhea or cramps

  • Burping

  • Nausea