Laxatives - Senna

Question 1

What is senna used for?

Answer 1

1) constipation

2) as suppositories for faecal impaction

Question 2

How does senna work?

Answer 2

• laxatives increase water and electrolyte secretion from colonic mucosa
• this increases the volume of colonic content and stimulates peristalsis

Question 3

What are the side effects of senna?

Answer 3

• abdo pain / cramping

- diarrhoea

Question 4

what are the contraindications of senns?

Answer 4

1) don’t use in intestinal obstruction as can cause perforation
2) don’t give rectal suppositories if pt has haemorrhoids or anal fissure

Question 5

what are the drug interactions of senna

Answer 5

none