Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Movantik (naloxegol) and senna (Senakot, Ex-Lax) are both used to treat constipation, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of constipation. Movantik is a prescription medication specifically for constipation caused by opioid pain medications. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the intestines, helping to move waste through the gut. You take it once daily on an empty stomach, and it can cause side effects like stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. On the other hand, senna is an over-the-counter stimulant laxative used for occasional constipation. It works by stimulating the muscles in your intestines to help you have a bowel movement. Senna can be taken once or twice a day and may cause stomach cramps. Unlike Movantik, senna is available in both brand-name and lower-cost generic versions. Movantik can be used long-term, while senna should not be used for more than a week without consulting a healthcare professional.
Movantik (naloxegol)
Senna
Movantik (naloxegol)
Senna
Summary of Movantik vs. Ex-Lax
Summary for Opioid antagonist
Prescription only
Movantik (naloxegol) is an opioid antagonist that's used to treat opioid-induced constipation, or constipation from opioid medications, in adults. It's a tablet that's taken by mouth once every morning on an empty stomach. The dosage is typically 25 mg, but it can be lowered to lessen side effects or risks from interactions with other medications. Common side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Movantik (naloxegol) is available as a brand-name medication only; there's no lower-cost generic version yet.
Summary for Laxative
Senna, or also known as sennosides, is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative medication that's used to help with occasional constipation. It can work faster than some other alternatives, like docusate (Colace), but it can also cause stomach cramps as a side effect. This medication comes as tablets and liquids that are taken by mouth once or twice a day, depending on your needs. Senna is sold under many different brand names and lower-cost generic versions.