Docusate/senna is a combination medication containing docusate and senna. The two laxatives work together to treat constipation.
Occasional constipation
Docusate/senna contains a stool softener (docusate) and a stimulant laxative (senna). Docusate draws water into your intestines to soften your stool, while senna works on your intestines to help push it out.
Source: DailyMed
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Contains two medications, so there's fewer pills and can sometimes be cheaper
Available over-the-counter so you don't need a prescription from your provider
Works fast to help you have a bowel movement
Should only be used short-term (less than 7 days)
Some people have stomach cramps
Can cause loose, watery stools
Before using this medication, contact your provider if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting or if you've noticed sudden changes in your stool for more than 2 weeks.
Don't take docusate/senna if you're taking mineral oil, unless your provider tells you to. Taking docusate/senna with mineral oil can raise the amount of mineral oil your body absorbs.
It's recommended to take your first dose at bedtime because you can expect to have a bowel movement the following morning. You don't have to take it at bedtime, however, especially if your body responds differently to the medication.
Stay hydrated and eat food that is high in fiber to help your body have regular, easy bowel movements.
Contact your provider if you don't have a bowel movement after using docusate/senna for 1 week. This could be a sign of a more serious problem.
Docusate/senna can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Stop taking docusate/senna and call your provider if you have rectal bleeding (from your anus) or cannot have a bowel movement after taking docusate/senna. These could be signs of a more serious problem.
Before you start taking docusate/senna, speak with your provider first if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting or if you've noticed sudden changes in your stool for more than 2 weeks. Docusate/senna may not be the best medication for you, and your provider should make sure there's not a more serious problem going on.
Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
---|---|---|---|
50mg/8.6mg | 60 tablets | $3.89 | $0.06 |
Adults and Children age 12 and older: The typical starting dose is 2 pills by mouth once a day. The maximum dose is 4 pills two times a day.
Children age 6—11: The typical starting dose is 1 pill by mouth once a day. The maximum dose is 2 pills two times a day.
Occasional constipation and irregular bowel movements
Occasional constipation from hard, dry stools
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