Also indexed as: Black-Draught, Fletcher’s Castoria,
Gentlax, Senexon, Senna-Gen, Senokot, Senolax
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Check: Other—Before taking any of these supplements or eating any of
these foods with your medication, read this article in full for details. |
Digitalis
Potassium
Sodium
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Sodium and
potassium
Overuse or misuse of laxatives, including senna, can cause water, sodium, and potassium
depletion.1 To avoid depletion problems, people should limit laxative use,
including senna, to one week or less.2
Interactions with Herbs
Digitalis (Digitalis lanata, Digitalis
purpurea)
Digitalis refers to a family of plants commonly called foxglove that contain digitalis
glycosides, chemicals with actions and toxicities similar to the prescription drug digoxin. While the interaction has not been reported,
overuse or misuse of senna (leading to potassium loss) may increase digitalis effects and risk
of side effects.3 Senna and digitalis-containing products should be used only under
the direct supervision of a doctor trained in their use.
References:1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and
Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991,
318a–9.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Gastrointestinal Drugs, Laxatives. In Facts and
Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1991,
318a–9
3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide
for Healthcare Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 244.