Senna, Sennosides, Ex-Lax®, Senokot®

Senna is a medicine that relieves constipation. Common brand names include Ex-Lax® and Senokot®. Senna works by causing a squeezing motion that pushes your child’s poop and helps it pass. It may take up to 24 hours for it to work. This medicine is sold over the counter, or you can get a prescription for it. Medicaid covers the cost of this medicine if it’s filled by a pharmacy.   

How to Give This Medicine

Senna comes in a few different forms. Read the information given to you by your doctor and/or pharmacy for complete instructions. Have your child drink lots of fluids while taking senna, so their constipation does not get worse. How long your child will need to take senna varies from person to person. Talk to their doctor about when they should stop taking senna. 

Chewable squares

• Chew well before swallowing.

Liquid

• Shake well before using.
• Use a measuring device to measure doses carefully. If a measuring device is not included, ask your pharmacy to give you one.
• Can be given with juice for better taste if needed.

Tablet or Capsule

• Swallow whole with a full glass of water. Tablets may be crushed but will not crush easily and will not taste good if crushed.

Medicine Storage

• Keep medicine in the original container and out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not store this medicine where it’s hot or in direct sunlight. Store it in a dry place. Do not store it in a bathroom.
• Don’t use this medicine after the expiration date printed on the container or prescription label.
• When the medicine is no longer needed or is expired, throw it away. Check with your pharmacist for the best way to throw away medicines.

Preventive Measures

• Have your child go to the bathroom at the same time each day. This habit will help build a routine around using the bathroom and trying to poop.
  • Have them sit on the toilet for 5 minutes after eating. This is a good time for them to try pooping.
  • Put a footstool under their feet while they’re on the toilet so their feet don’t dangle.
  • Have them lean forward while trying to poop.
• Give your child foods high in fiber, like whole-grain cereals, bread, fruits, and vegetables. Encourage them to drink water all day.

Possible Side Effects

Most children don’t have any side effects with this medicine. Possible side effects include belly cramps and nausea. If these symptoms don’t go away, call your child’s doctor or health care provider.

When to Call 911

Call 911 for emergency help if your child shows signs of an allergic reaction, like: 

• Trouble breathing
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat

When To Call the Doctor

Call your child’s doctor or health care provider if they have:

• An upset stomach or diarrhea for more than 48 hours.
• Any side effects that are very bothersome or last more than 48 hours.

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