Docusate and senna

Docusate is a stool softener. Senna is a laxative.

Docusate and senna is a combination medicine used to treat occasional constipation.

Docusate and senna may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take docusate and senna with a full glass of water.

It may be best to take this medicine at night or at bedtime. Docusate and senna should cause you to have a bowel movement within 6 to 12 hours.

Do not take docusate and senna for longer than 7 days in a row, unless your doctor tells you to.

Call your doctor if your constipation does not improve or if it gets worse after taking docusate and senna.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Use exactly as it says on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed.

You should not use docusate and senna if you are allergic to docusate or senna, or if you are also taking mineral oil.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

• nausea or vomiting;
• stomach pain;
• a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for 2 weeks or longer; or
• an intestinal disorder such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Docusate and senna may cause serious side effects. Stop using docusate and senna and call your doctor right away if you have:

• rectal bleeding;
• severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
• no bowel movement.

Common side effects of docusate and senna may include:

• gas, bloating;
• diarrhea; or
• mild nausea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Constipation -- Acute:

2 to 4 tablets orally daily in divided doses or as a single daily dose preferably in the evening

Usual Pediatric Dose for Constipation -- Acute:

2 to 6 years: up to 1 tablet daily6 to 12 years: 1 to 2 tablets daily

Since docusate and senna is taken as needed, you might not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other laxative or stool softener that may have ingredients similar to docusate or senna.

Other drugs may affect docusate and senna, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you begin or discontinue using.