Senokot to relieve short -term constipation drugs 7.5 mg of 20 tablets Senokot 7.5mg Tablets Adults -20 Tabletstables Adults -20 Tablets

Senokot is a stimulant laxative tablet containing standardised senna equivalent to 7.5mg of sennosides, used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation, usually working within 8 to 12 hours, pack of 20 adult tablets, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and the elderly with occasional constipation
• People who want a plant-derived stimulant laxative that usually works overnight
• People who have not had relief from increasing fibre and fluids alone

Not suitable for: under-18s (unless advised by a healthcare professional); anyone allergic to the ingredients; people with a bowel or stomach blockage, kidney or heart disease, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding — speak to your pharmacist first. See a doctor if you have ongoing abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or a persistent change in bowel habit.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet on the pack before you start.
2. Adults and the elderly: swallow 1 to 2 tablets at night.
3. Do not take more than the dose stated on the label.
4. Drink plenty of fluids while using a laxative; usually take it no more than two or three times a week.
5. If there is no bowel movement after 3 days, or symptoms continue, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Use for more than 1 week needs medical supervision.

Frequently asked questions

How does Senokot work?

Senna is a stimulant laxative. It acts on the bowel to encourage the muscle to move, helping to push the stool along and produce a bowel movement.

How long does Senokot take to work?

Senokot tablets usually work within 8 to 12 hours. They are often taken at night so they produce a bowel movement the next morning.

How long can I take Senokot?

It is for short-term, occasional use, usually no more than two or three times a week. Use for more than a week should be under medical supervision; if constipation continues, see your doctor.

Can I take Senokot in pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before use so they can advise whether it is suitable for you.

Is Senokot a way to lose weight?

No. Laxatives do not affect how many calories your body absorbs from food and are not a weight-loss aid. Misusing them can be harmful.

Safety and storage

• Always read the patient information leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly.
• Do not take if you have a bowel or stomach blockage. See a doctor for ongoing abdominal pain or blood in the stool.
• Contains lactose — see the leaflet if you have a lactose intolerance.
• Store below 25°C in the original packaging. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date shown on the pack.

References

• NHS — Constipation
• Senokot (senna) Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter stimulant laxative. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If constipation persists beyond a few days, or you have abdominal pain or blood in the stool, speak to a pharmacist or doctor. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.