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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 mg/1 | TABLET, SUGAR COATED | ORAL | 49483-083 |
Detailed information about Lax-time
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Lax-time, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Sennosides A and B are anthraquinone stimulant laxatives derived from the Senna plant, primarily used for the short-term treatment of constipation and bowel evacuation before medical procedures.
For the treatment of occasional constipation in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older, the standard starting dose of Sennosides A and B is typically 15 mg to 17.2 mg (usually two 8.6 mg tablets) taken once daily.
Pediatric dosing must be approached with caution and should ideally be supervised by a pediatrician.
No specific dosage adjustments are typically required for mild to moderate renal impairment due to the local action of the drug. However, patients with severe renal failure or those on dialysis should use sennosides with caution, as they are at a higher risk for electrolyte imbalances (especially hypermagnesemia if the product contains magnesium salts).
No dosage adjustments are generally necessary for patients with liver disease, as the drug is not significantly absorbed systemically and does not rely on hepatic metabolism for its primary effect.
Geriatric patients should start at the lowest possible dose. The elderly are more susceptible to the dehydrating effects of laxatives and may experience increased fecal incontinence or 'laxative-induced' diarrhea. Long-term use in the elderly is discouraged to prevent the development of a 'lazy bowel.'
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this increases the risk of severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea.
Signs of a Sennosides A and B overdose include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and persistent, watery diarrhea. Prolonged overdose can lead to significant dehydration and electrolyte imbalances (low potassium, low sodium). In the event of a suspected overdose, contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is generally supportive, focusing on rehydration and electrolyte replacement.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or use the product for more than 7 consecutive days without medical guidance.
Most patients taking Sennosides A and B will experience some degree of gastrointestinal activity, which is often a sign that the medication is working. Common side effects include:
> Warning: Stop taking Sennosides A And B and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
Chronic use of Sennosides A and B (beyond 7-10 days) can lead to several complications:
No FDA black box warnings are currently issued for Sennosides A and B. However, the FDA requires a general warning on all stimulant laxatives regarding the risk of using them when abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting are present, as these can be signs of appendicitis or bowel obstruction.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. For more information on side effects, you may contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Sennosides A and B are intended for short-term relief of occasional constipation only. They should not be used as a primary method for weight loss or for more than seven consecutive days unless under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider. Misuse of stimulant laxatives can lead to serious health complications, including permanent damage to the digestive system and life-threatening electrolyte disturbances.
There are no FDA black box warnings for Sennosides A and B. It is considered a low-risk medication when used according to the label instructions for short durations.
For occasional, short-term use, no specific laboratory monitoring is required. However, for patients who are directed by a physician to use sennosides long-term (e.g., for chronic opioid use or neurogenic bowel):
Sennosides A and B generally do not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if a patient experiences significant abdominal cramping or sudden, urgent bowel movements, their ability to focus or remain stationary may be temporarily impaired.
There is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Sennosides A and B. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may exacerbate the side effects of laxatives. It is recommended to limit alcohol intake while treating constipation.
If Sennosides have been used for an extended period, they should be tapered off gradually rather than stopped abruptly. Sudden discontinuation after long-term use can lead to 'rebound constipation.' Patients should be encouraged to increase dietary fiber (25-35g per day) and fluid intake (6-8 glasses of water) during the tapering process to support natural bowel function.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially any history of bowel obstruction or inflammatory bowel disease, with your healthcare provider before starting Sennosides A And B.
There are no drugs that are strictly contraindicated for co-administration with Sennosides A and B in the same way that certain antivirals or chemotherapies interact. However, they should never be used in combination with other stimulant laxatives (like bisacodyl or castor oil) unless specifically directed by a doctor for bowel preparation, as this significantly increases the risk of severe cramping and dehydration.
For each major interaction, the mechanism is typically pharmacodynamic (additive effects on electrolytes) or related to altered transit time. Management involves monitoring symptoms of electrolyte loss and separating the timing of doses.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially those that affect heart rhythm or fluid balance.
Sennosides A and B must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring a careful risk-benefit analysis by a physician include:
There is a potential for cross-sensitivity in patients who have had allergic reactions to other anthraquinone-containing plants, such as Cascara sagrada or Frangula. If you have experienced a rash or breathing difficulties with any natural laxative, consult an allergist before using Sennosides A and B.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any history of 'megacolon' or intestinal 'atony,' before prescribing or recommending Sennosides A And B.
Sennosides A and B are generally considered compatible with pregnancy when used occasionally and for short durations. They are often categorized as a second-line treatment after fiber and stool softeners.
Sennosides are considered 'usually compatible' with breastfeeding by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) should use sennosides with caution. While the sennosides themselves are not nephrotoxic, the resulting shifts in potassium and sodium can be difficult for impaired kidneys to manage. Avoid formulations containing magnesium or potassium salts in this population.
No specific adjustments are required for patients with liver disease (Child-Pugh Class A, B, or C), as the drug's activity is localized to the colon and does not significantly impact or rely on hepatic function.
> Important: Special populations, particularly the elderly and pregnant women, require individualized medical assessment to ensure the safest choice of laxative.
Sennosides A and B are hydroxyanthracene glycosides. They are inactive precursors that require bacterial cleavage. In the colon, the enzyme beta-glucosidase (from bacteria like Bacteroides species) breaks the glycosidic bond, releasing the active aglycone, rheinanthrone. Rheinanthrone acts on the colonic mucosa to stimulate the myenteric plexus, increasing the rate of colonic transit. It also interacts with the epithelial cells to increase the secretion of electrolytes and water into the lumen by modulating the cyclic AMP (cAMP) pathway and inhibiting the Na+/K+-ATPase pump.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | < 5% (parent compounds) |
| Protein Binding | Not clinically significant for parent compounds |
| Half-life | Metabolites: 10-15 hours |
| Tmax | 8-12 hours (for laxative effect) |
| Metabolism | Colonic bacteria (primary); Liver (secondary for absorbed metabolites) |
| Excretion | Fecal (>90%), Renal (3-6%) |
Sennosides A and B belong to the Anthraquinone Stimulant Laxative class. Related medications include Bisacodyl (a diphenylmethane stimulant) and Cascara Sagrada (another anthraquinone). Unlike bulk-forming laxatives (fiber) or osmotic laxatives (Miralax), sennosides actively force the bowel to move.
Common questions about Lax-time
Sennosides A and B are primarily used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation in adults and children. They work by stimulating the muscles of the large intestine to contract, which helps move stool through the system more quickly. Additionally, they are often used as part of a bowel cleansing regimen before medical procedures like a colonoscopy. Healthcare providers may also recommend them for patients taking opioid pain medications, which are known to cause significant constipation. It is important to remember that these are not intended for daily use or for long-term management of bowel issues without medical supervision.
The most common side effects associated with Sennosides A and B are abdominal cramping, stomach discomfort, and diarrhea. Because the medication works by irritating the bowel lining to cause contractions, some degree of cramping is expected. You may also notice that your urine turns a yellowish-brown or reddish-orange color; this is a harmless effect caused by the breakdown of the plant-based ingredients. Most of these side effects are temporary and will resolve once the medication has passed through your system. If you experience severe pain or persistent watery diarrhea, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.
There is no known direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Sennosides A and B. However, alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can cause your body to lose water and become dehydrated. Since laxatives also cause the body to lose fluids through the stool, combining the two can increase your risk of significant dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Dehydration can actually make constipation worse in the long run, so it is best to avoid alcohol and focus on drinking plenty of water while using this medication. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation and ensure you are significantly increasing your water intake.
Sennosides A and B are generally considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy, but they are not the first choice for treating constipation in expectant mothers. Most doctors recommend starting with lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber and water intake, or using a bulk-forming laxative first. While studies have not shown a risk of birth defects, stimulant laxatives can occasionally cause abdominal discomfort that might be confused with uterine contractions. Because every pregnancy is unique, you should always consult your obstetrician or healthcare provider before taking any laxative to ensure it is the safest option for you and your baby.
Sennosides A and B typically take between 6 and 12 hours to produce a bowel movement. This delay occurs because the medication must travel through the entire digestive tract to reach the large intestine, where it is activated by natural gut bacteria. Because of this timing, most people find it most convenient to take the dose at bedtime so that they will have a bowel movement the following morning. You should not expect immediate relief, and you should not take a second dose if you do not see results within a few hours. If you have not had a bowel movement after 24 hours, contact your healthcare provider.
If you have only been taking Sennosides A and B for a few days to treat occasional constipation, you can stop taking them suddenly without any issues. However, if you have been using them daily for an extended period, your bowel may have become 'dependent' on the stimulant to function properly. In such cases, stopping abruptly can lead to severe 'rebound' constipation. If you have been using laxatives long-term, it is important to work with a doctor to gradually taper the dose while increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake. This allows your colon to slowly regain its natural muscular tone and function.
If you miss a dose of Sennosides A and B, you should take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, simply skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. You should never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this significantly increases the risk of severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. Since this medication is often taken on an 'as needed' basis for constipation, missing a dose is generally not a serious concern. Just ensure you maintain adequate hydration throughout the day.
Sennosides A and B do not cause weight gain; in fact, some people mistakenly use them for weight loss. Any 'weight loss' achieved with laxatives is actually just the loss of water and stool, not a loss of body fat. This practice is dangerous and can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and permanent damage to your digestive system. Once you rehydrate, the water weight will return. If you are concerned about your weight, it is important to discuss healthy, sustainable weight management strategies with a doctor or registered dietitian rather than relying on laxatives, which can be habit-forming and harmful when misused.
Sennosides A and B can interact with several types of medications, so caution is necessary. Because they speed up the movement of the bowels, they can reduce the amount of time your body has to absorb other oral medications, potentially making them less effective. They are particularly known to interact with 'water pills' (diuretics) and heart medications like digoxin, as the combination can lead to dangerously low potassium levels. To minimize risks, it is generally recommended to take other medications at least two hours before or after taking a laxative. Always provide your doctor or pharmacist with a full list of all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
Yes, Sennosides A and B are widely available as generic medications and are often much less expensive than brand-name versions like Senokot. Generic versions are required by the FDA to have the same active ingredients, strength, and efficacy as the brand-name products. You can find them in most pharmacies, grocery stores, and big-box retailers under the 'store brand' label. When purchasing, check the 'Drug Facts' label to ensure the active ingredient is 'Sennosides' and that the dosage matches what your doctor recommended. Whether you choose a brand-name or generic product, the clinical effect on your constipation will be the same.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Sennosides A And B)