Senna Tablet Uses in Pakistan

Senna Tablet (Sennosides A and B) is a commonly used stimulant laxative in Pakistan. This guide covers all its approved uses, indications, and other important information you should know.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-07-09

Uses

Quick Answer

Senna Tablet (Sennosides A and B) is used for short-term relief of constipation, bowel preparation before medical examinations, and management of constipation in palliative care. It belongs to the stimulant laxative class and is available OTC in Pakistan. Always take it at the correct dose as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Primary Uses at a Glance

Short-term Relief of Occasional Constipation

Senna Tablet is used for short-term relief of occasional constipation — difficulty passing stools. This is the primary indication for sennoside laxatives. Sennosides stimulate the muscles of the large intestine to contract and increase the movement of water into the intestine, making stools softer and easier to pass.

As directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Standard adult dose: 2 tablets at bedtime.

Bowel Preparation Before Medical Examinations

Senna Tablet is used as part of bowel preparation before procedures such as colonoscopy or abdominal surgery. Emptying the bowel in advance improves visibility during examination and reduces the risk of complications during surgery.

As directed by your doctor. Follow the specific bowel preparation instructions provided.

Management of Constipation in Palliative Care

Senna Tablet is commonly used in palliative care settings to manage constipation caused by opioid pain medicines. Strong opioid painkillers almost always cause constipation, and regular senna is a standard preventive and treatment measure in this context.

As directed by your palliative care team or doctor. Dose may be adjusted based on response.

Other Uses

Constipation associated with a low-fibre diet (adjunct to dietary measures)
Opioid-induced constipation (standard management alongside opioid therapy)

Senna Tablet Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

Senna Tablet contains Sennosides A and B and belongs to the stimulant laxative / anthraquinone laxative group. Below are all the approved and common uses of Senna Tablet in Pakistan.

Primary Uses (Mukhya Istemal)

Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Bowel preparation before medical examinations
Management of constipation in palliative care

Who Should Take It (Kin logon ke liye)

Adults with occasional constipation who have not responded to dietary measures
Patients requiring bowel preparation before a medical procedure
Patients in palliative care requiring regular laxative support

When NOT to Use Senna Tablet (Kab nahi leni chahiye)

If you are allergic to sennosides or any ingredient
If you have bowel obstruction, appendicitis, or severe undiagnosed abdominal pain
Prolonged use without medical supervision

Summary

Senna Tablet is used for short-term constipation, bowel preparation, and palliative care constipation management. Do not use for more than 7–10 days without medical advice. Always consult a doctor before starting or stopping this medicine.

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only.

Frequently Asked Questions

For which conditions is Senna Tablet most effective?

Senna Tablet is most effective for short-term constipation relief. It is also a standard choice for opioid-induced constipation in palliative care. Always use it for the condition your doctor has recommended it for.

Can Senna Tablet be taken without a doctor's prescription?

Senna Tablet is an OTC medicine. For best results and to avoid overuse, consult a pharmacist before use. Do not take for more than 7–10 days without medical advice.

How long does Senna Tablet take to show results?

Senna Tablet typically produces bowel movement 6 to 12 hours after taking. This is why it is usually taken at bedtime, so a bowel movement occurs in the morning.

Can Senna Tablet be taken long-term?

Long-term use of Senna Tablet is not recommended without medical supervision. It can cause laxative dependence and electrolyte imbalance. Your doctor will advise the appropriate duration based on your condition.

What should I do if Senna Tablet does not seem to work?

If constipation does not improve after 3 days of treatment, consult your doctor. Do not increase the dose on your own. Persistent constipation may have an underlying cause requiring investigation.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Senna Tablet.

Other laxatives

Sibling medicines in the Laxatives class.

All in class →

Used for the same conditions

Other medicines commonly used for constipation and overlapping conditions.

Constipation hub →

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.