Skip to main content

Senokot Side Effects

Generic name: senna

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 2, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Senokot Side Effects associated with senna. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Senokot.

Applies to senna: oral capsule liquid filled, oral liquid, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable.

Serious side effects of Senokot

Along with its needed effects, senna (the active ingredient contained in Senokot) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking senna:

Incidence not known

  • black, tarry stools
  • blood in the stools
  • nausea or vomiting
  • stomach pain

For healthcare professionals

Applies to senna: compounding powder, oral disintegrating strip, oral granule, oral liquid, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, rectal suppository.

Gastrointestinal

Abdominal pain, abdominal spasm, and liquid stool passage usually occurred in patients with irritable colon and may occur in individual overdose events; dose reductions should be performed if the side effects occur.

Chronic use may result in intestinal mucosa pigmentation/pseudomelanosis coli, which usually recedes with treatment discontinuation.[Ref]

Genitourinary

Albuminuria and hematuria may occur as a result of electrolyte and water equilibrium disorders.

Urine discoloration by metabolites was not clinically significant.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Metabolic

Chronic use may result in electrolyte metabolism and water equilibrium disorders.[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity reactions included generalized/local exanthema, pruritus, and/or urticaria.[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Immunologic

Respiratory

References

1. (2005) "Product Information. Fletchers Castoria (senna)." Mentholatum Company, The

2. (2022) "Product Information. SenoSol-X (senna)." Apothecon Inc

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

4. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

5. (2019) "Product Information. Ex-Lax Chocolated (senna)." Novartis Consumer Health

6. (2019) "Product Information. Ex-Lax Extra Strength (senna)." Novartis Consumer Health

7. (2019) "Product Information. Ex-Lax Regular Strength Pills (senna)." Novartis Consumer Health

8. (2019) "Product Information. Senna (senna)." Humco Holding Group

9. (2019) "Product Information. Senna Lax (senna)." Mylan Institutional (formerly UDL Laboratories)

10. (2019) "Product Information. Senokot (senna)." Palmetto State Pharmaceuticals Inc

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Senokot side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.