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Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxatives Tablets - 100 (BRAND MAY VARY)

Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxatives Tablets - 100 (BRAND MAY VARY)

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  • ✔️ Relieves occasional constipation within 8–12 hours
  • ✔️ Stimulates natural bowel contractions using plant-derived sennosides
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ 100-tablet pack provides a generous supply for home use
  • ✔️ Gentle overnight action — take at bedtime, works by morning

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Are Senna Laxative Tablets Right for Your Constipation?

 

Constipation is something most people experience at some point — and it can be genuinely uncomfortable. Straining, bloating, and that persistent feeling of being blocked up are no fun at all. Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets offer a plant-based option for short-term relief, available without a prescription. Each pack contains 100 tablets, making it a practical choice if you want a reliable supply at home. If you're looking at our wider range of constipation treatments, senna is one of the most well-established options available over the counter in the UK.

Senna has been used medicinally for centuries. It's derived from the dried leaves and pods of the Cassia senna plant, and its active compounds — sennosides — are well studied. The NHS recognises senna as a stimulant laxative suitable for short-term use in adults and children aged 12 and over. At £8.59 for 100 tablets, this pack represents good value for occasional use.

 

How Do Senna Laxative Tablets Work in the Body?

 

Senna works by stimulating the muscles in the walls of your large intestine. The sennosides it contains are converted by gut bacteria into active compounds that irritate the bowel lining, triggering peristalsis — the wave-like contractions that push stool towards the rectum. It also reduces water absorption from the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass.

  • Sennosides are absorbed in the colon, not the small intestine
  • Bowel movement typically occurs within 8–12 hours of taking the tablet
  • Taking at bedtime usually results in a morning bowel movement
  • Effect is dose-dependent — higher doses produce faster, more pronounced results

 

Who Is Suitable for Using Senna Laxative Tablets?

 

These tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. They're particularly useful when constipation is linked to a low-fibre diet, reduced physical activity, or temporary changes in routine — such as travel or illness. If you also experience symptoms like bloating or cramping alongside constipation, it may be worth exploring our IBS and cramps range for additional support.

  • Adults experiencing occasional or short-term constipation
  • People who need a reliable, fast-acting laxative overnight
  • Those who prefer a plant-derived remedy over synthetic options
  • Individuals who have not responded to dietary changes alone

 

How Do Senna Tablets Compare to Other Laxative Types?

 

Feature Senna Laxative Tablets Lactulose (Osmotic Laxative)
Type Stimulant laxative Osmotic laxative
Onset of action 8–12 hours 24–48 hours
Form Tablet (oral) Liquid (oral)
Suitable for children under 12? No (without medical advice) Yes (with appropriate dosing)

 

How Should You Store Senna Laxative Tablets and Are They Clinically Suitable for You?

 

Store these tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Senna laxative tablets are not suitable for everyone — people with inflammatory bowel disease, intestinal obstruction, or severe dehydration should not use them without first speaking to a doctor. If your constipation is persistent, unexplained, or accompanied by blood in your stool, seek medical advice promptly rather than self-treating.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets 100 specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates bowel muscle contractions via sennosides
Effective for Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Sennoside B (from senna leaf extract)
Pack size 100 tablets
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Stimulant laxative
Preparation Tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets 100

 

What Are Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets and What Are They Used For?

 

Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets are an over-the-counter stimulant laxative used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. They contain sennosides derived from the senna plant, a well-recognised herbal source used in licensed laxative medicines across the UK. The NHS describes stimulant laxatives as suitable when other measures — such as increasing fluid intake, dietary fibre, and exercise — have not worked. These tablets are taken orally and are not intended for long-term daily use.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Senna Laxative Tablets?

 

Before taking these tablets, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use them if any of the following apply:

  • You have a known bowel obstruction or ileus
  • You have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek medical advice first)
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have severe abdominal pain of unknown cause
  • You have a known allergy to senna or any ingredient in the tablet
  • You have appendicitis or symptoms suggesting it

Certain medicines may interact with senna. These include:

  • Diuretics — increased risk of electrolyte imbalance, particularly low potassium
  • Digoxin — low potassium caused by senna can increase digoxin toxicity risk
  • Antiarrhythmic medicines — electrolyte disturbances may affect heart rhythm
  • Other laxatives — combining stimulant laxatives increases the risk of side effects

If you are taking any prescription medicines, always check with your pharmacist before starting senna.

 

How Should You Use Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew them. Taking them at bedtime is generally recommended, as this aligns with the 8–12 hour onset time and typically produces a bowel movement the following morning.

  1. Check the packaging to confirm the correct dose for your age
  2. Take tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water
  3. Do not take more than the recommended dose
  4. Continue to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day
  5. Do not use for more than one week without medical advice
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Duration
Adults and children 12+ 2 tablets (approx. 15mg sennosides) Once daily at bedtime Up to 7 days
Children under 12 Not recommended without medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Senna Laxative Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, senna can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're also managing digestive discomfort alongside constipation, you may find our indigestion range helpful for related symptoms.

Common side effects:

  • Abdominal cramps or pain
  • Wind and bloating
  • Loose stools or diarrhoea
  • Discomfort in the lower abdomen

Less common side effects:

  • Electrolyte imbalance (particularly with prolonged use) — symptoms include muscle weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat
  • Harmless discolouration of urine (yellow-brown or reddish)
  • Skin reactions (rare) — stop use and seek advice if a rash develops
  • Melanosis coli — a reversible darkening of the bowel lining seen with long-term stimulant laxative use

Stop taking senna and speak to a pharmacist or GP if diarrhoea is severe, if you notice blood in your stool, or if symptoms do not improve after a week.

 

How Should You Store Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets?

 

Proper storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your tablets. If you're managing multiple health products at home, it's worth keeping all medicines organised and stored correctly. You might also want to browse our vitamins and supplements range for complementary digestive health support.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not transfer tablets to a different container — keep in original packaging

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy senna laxative tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is required, as senna is available over the counter as a General Sale List medicine. Simply add to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option for fast, discreet dispatch.

How do senna laxative tablets work in the body?

Senna contains naturally occurring compounds called sennosides, which are converted by gut bacteria in the colon into active metabolites. These stimulate the muscles in the bowel wall to contract, pushing stool towards the rectum. Senna also reduces water reabsorption in the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass.

How do I use senna tablets step by step?

Take 2 tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water — this aligns with the 8–12 hour onset time so you can expect a bowel movement the following morning. Swallow the tablets whole without crushing or chewing them. Continue drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day to support the effect and reduce the risk of cramping.

What is the correct dose of senna tablets for adults?

The standard adult dose is 2 tablets, providing approximately 15mg of sennosides, taken once daily at bedtime. Do not take more than the recommended dose, as this increases the risk of diarrhoea and abdominal cramping. If constipation persists after one week, speak to your pharmacist or GP rather than increasing the dose.

What is the best time to take senna laxative tablets?

Bedtime is the recommended time to take senna tablets, as the 8–12 hour onset means you'll typically have a bowel movement the next morning. Taking them at a consistent time each day also helps your body establish a regular routine. Avoid taking them with a large meal, as this may slightly delay absorption.

What are the side effects of senna tablets and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are abdominal cramps, wind, and loose stools — these are usually mild and short-lived. Staying well hydrated and not exceeding the recommended dose can help minimise cramping. If you experience severe diarrhoea, blood in your stool, or symptoms of electrolyte imbalance such as muscle weakness, stop taking the tablets and contact your pharmacist or GP.

Who is eligible to use senna laxative tablets?

Senna tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. They are not suitable for children under 12, people with bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe unexplained abdominal pain without medical advice. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their GP or midwife before use. You can browse our full constipation range to find the most appropriate option for your situation.

Are senna tablets safe to take during pregnancy?

Senna is generally not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, without specific medical advice. Some healthcare professionals may consider it in later pregnancy when other measures have failed, but this should always be discussed with your GP or midwife first. Safer first-line options for constipation in pregnancy include increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake.

How long does it take for senna tablets to work?

Senna tablets typically produce a bowel movement within 8 to 12 hours of taking them. This is why taking them at bedtime is recommended — most people find they work by the following morning. If you have not had a bowel movement within 24 hours of taking the dose, do not double up; instead, speak to a pharmacist for further advice.

What happens if I miss a dose of senna tablets?

If you forget to take your dose at bedtime, simply take it the following night — do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Senna is used on an as-needed basis for short-term constipation, so missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any problems. If constipation continues, reassess your fluid and fibre intake and speak to your pharmacist.

Can I take senna tablets every day long term?

Senna is intended for short-term use only — typically no longer than one week at a time. Long-term daily use without medical supervision can lead to laxative dependence, electrolyte imbalances (particularly low potassium), and a condition called melanosis coli, which is a reversible darkening of the bowel lining. If you find you need a laxative regularly, speak to your GP to investigate the underlying cause.

Can senna tablets interact with other medicines?

Yes — senna can interact with several medicines. The most clinically significant interactions are with diuretics (water tablets), digoxin, and antiarrhythmic drugs, as senna can lower potassium levels and increase the risk of side effects from these medicines. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including herbal remedies, before starting senna.

What are the alternatives to senna laxative tablets?

There are several types of laxative available over the counter in the UK, including bulk-forming laxatives (such as ispaghula husk), osmotic laxatives (such as lactulose or macrogol), and stool softeners (such as docusate). Each works differently and suits different types of constipation. You can explore the full range in our constipation collection or ask our pharmacist for personalised advice.

Are senna tablets suitable for people with IBS?

Senna is generally not recommended as a first-line treatment for constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as stimulant laxatives can worsen cramping and bloating in some people. Bulk-forming laxatives or osmotic laxatives are usually preferred for IBS-related constipation. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before using senna if you have a confirmed IBS diagnosis.

What does the latest research say about senna for constipation?

Senna has a well-established evidence base as a short-term stimulant laxative, and it remains a recommended option in NHS clinical guidance for occasional constipation. Research consistently supports its efficacy for short-term use, with a predictable 8–12 hour onset. Current guidance continues to advise against long-term unsupervised use due to the risk of electrolyte disturbances and laxative dependence.

How Should You Use Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets?

These tablets are straightforward to use, but following the correct method helps you get the best results while minimising the risk of side effects. Always read the packaging before you start, and make sure you're taking the right dose for your age.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets?

The dose depends on your age. Do not exceed the stated dose, and do not give these tablets to children under 12 without specific medical advice. If you are unsure whether the dose is appropriate for you, speak to your pharmacist before taking them.

When Is the Best Time to Use Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets?

Bedtime is the ideal time to take senna tablets. Because they take 8–12 hours to work, taking them before you sleep means you'll typically experience a bowel movement the following morning — which fits naturally into most people's daily routines. Avoid taking them immediately before or after a large meal, as this may slightly delay the onset of action.

Try to take your dose at roughly the same time each evening if you're using them on consecutive nights, as consistency can help regulate your bowel pattern during the short course of treatment.

How Long Can You Use Rxfarma Natural Senna Laxative Tablets For?

Senna tablets are intended for short-term use only — typically up to seven consecutive days. Using them for longer than this without medical supervision increases the risk of laxative dependence, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced natural bowel function over time. If your constipation has not resolved after one week, stop taking the tablets and speak to your GP or pharmacist to investigate the underlying cause.

Lifestyle changes — including increasing dietary fibre, drinking more water, and taking regular exercise — should always be considered alongside any laxative treatment to support long-term bowel health.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Senna Laxative Tablets?

Most people who take senna tablets at the recommended dose tolerate them well, but some side effects can occur. The most frequently reported ones are related to the stimulant action of senna on the bowel and are usually mild and temporary.

  • Abdominal cramps or stomach pain
  • Wind and bloating
  • Loose stools or mild diarrhoea
  • Urgency to open the bowels

These effects typically resolve once the bowel has moved and the dose has worn off. Staying well hydrated and not exceeding the recommended dose can help reduce their severity.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Senna Laxative Tablets?

Less commonly, some people may experience side effects that are more persistent or require attention. These are more likely to occur with prolonged or excessive use rather than short-term, correctly dosed treatment.

  • Electrolyte imbalance — particularly low potassium (hypokalaemia), which may cause muscle weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat
  • Harmless discolouration of urine — a yellow-brown or reddish tint that is not medically significant
  • Melanosis coli — a reversible darkening of the bowel lining seen with long-term stimulant laxative use
  • Nausea or feeling generally unwell

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Senna Laxative Tablets?

Serious side effects from senna are rare when the product is used as directed for short periods. However, you should stop taking the tablets immediately and seek medical advice if you notice any of the following:

  • Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction — including rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Symptoms of significant electrolyte disturbance — such as muscle cramps, confusion, or heart palpitations

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical assessment rather than continued self-treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Senna Tablets?

For mild side effects such as cramping or loose stools, reducing your fluid intake of caffeine and alcohol, staying hydrated with water, and ensuring you haven't exceeded the recommended dose is usually sufficient. If side effects are moderate or do not settle within 24 hours, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist. For any serious or unexpected reaction, contact your GP or call NHS 111 for guidance.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Senna Laxative Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — senna has clinically relevant interactions with several medicines. The most important ones to be aware of are diuretics (water tablets), digoxin, and antiarrhythmic drugs. Senna can lower potassium levels in the blood, and this effect is amplified when combined with diuretics. Low potassium increases the risk of digoxin toxicity and can affect heart rhythm in people taking antiarrhythmic medicines. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking — including over-the-counter products and herbal remedies — before starting senna.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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