Senna: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Senna is a stimulant laxative. It is used for constipation. In Pakistan it is available as syrup and tablets, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Senna works

Senna contains natural compounds called sennosides. They are activated by bacteria in the large bowel, where they stimulate the bowel muscles to contract and push stools along, and also draw water into the bowel, making stools softer and easier to pass.

What is Senna used for?

• Constipation

Senna is used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. It can help when stools are hard and infrequent despite changes in diet and fluid intake, and it may also be used to ease constipation caused by certain medicines, such as strong painkillers. It usually takes several hours to work, so the effect is often felt the following morning.

Side effects of Senna

Senna is usually well tolerated for short periods. The more common side effects include:

• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Wind or bloating
• Harmless yellow-brown or reddish colouring of urine

Stop using it and see a doctor if you have severe stomach pain, vomiting, rectal bleeding, or diarrhoea with weakness or dizziness.

Precautions and warnings

• Use it only for short periods unless your doctor advises otherwise, as long-term use can upset the bowel's natural rhythm and the body's salt balance.
• Do not use it if you have stomach pain of unknown cause, a bowel blockage, or inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Drink plenty of fluids and include fibre in your diet to help prevent constipation returning.
• See a doctor if constipation lasts more than a week or two, or if there is a sudden change in your bowel habits.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist before giving it to children or using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions about Senna

What is the price of Senna in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Senna products currently in stock range from Rs 377 to Rs 2,626 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is EZ Col Syrup 60ml at Rs 377. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Senna are available in Pakistan?

Senna is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Senokot (Mcolson Research Labotraies), Ezilax (Himont Pharmaceutical Ltd) and Senalax (Kaap Pharmaceutical`s Ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Senna?

Senna is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.

Can Senna be used during pregnancy?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before giving it to children or using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Are all Senna brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Senna in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Senna brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 3 products containing Senna from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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