Senna glycoside

Senna is used for episodic and chronic constipation though there is a lack of high-quality evidence to support its use for these purposes. It may also be used to aid in the evacuation of the bowel prior to surgery or invasive rectal or colonic examinations. Administration Oral senna products typically produce a bowel movement in 6 to 12 hours. Rectal suppositories can act within minutes or take up to two hours. ==Contraindications==

According to Commission E, senna is contraindicated in cases of intestinal obstruction, acute intestinal inflammation (e.g., Crohn's disease), ulcerative colitis, appendicitis, and abdominal pain of unknown origin. Senna is considered contraindicated in people with a documented allergy to anthraquinones. Such allergies are rare and typically limited to dermatological reactions of redness and itching. ==Adverse effects==

Adverse effects are typically limited to gastrointestinal reactions and include abdominal pain or cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. ==Mechanism of action==

The breakdown products of senna act directly as irritants on the colonic wall to induce fluid secretion and colonic motility. ==Pharmacology==

They are anthraquinones derivatives and dimeric glycosides. ==Society and culture==

Formulations Senna is an over-the-counter drug available in multiple formulations, including oral formations (liquid, tablet, granular) and rectal suppositories. Senna products are manufactured by multiple generic drug makers and sold under various brand names. == References ==