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Senokot Max Strength - 10 Tablets

Senokot Max Strength - 10 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Contains double-strength senna 15mg for effective constipation relief
  • ✔️ Works within 8–12 hours for a predictable morning result
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Stimulates natural bowel contractions without softening agents
  • ✔️ Convenient 10-tablet pack for short-term occasional constipation

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What Are Senokot Max Strength Tablets?

 

Senokot Max Strength tablets are an over-the-counter stimulant laxative containing senna 15mg per tablet — double the dose found in standard Senokot tablets. They are designed to relieve occasional constipation in adults and young people aged 12 and over. Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting around one in seven adults at any given time, and it can cause real discomfort — bloating, straining, and that frustrating sense that things simply aren't moving. If you've been struggling with infrequent or difficult bowel movements, this product may offer the relief you need. You can browse our full range of constipation treatments to compare your options.

Each pack contains 10 tablets, making it a practical choice for short-term use. The active ingredient, senna, is a well-established plant-derived laxative that has been used medicinally for centuries and is listed in the British National Formulary as a stimulant laxative.

 

How Do Senokot Max Strength Tablets Work?

 

Senna works by being converted in the large intestine by gut bacteria into active compounds called rhein anthrones. These compounds act directly on the nerve plexus of the bowel wall, stimulating peristalsis — the rhythmic muscular contractions that move stool along the colon. At the same time, senna reduces water and electrolyte absorption from the colon, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass.

  • Senna is absorbed minimally from the gut — it acts locally in the large bowel
  • Onset of action is typically 8 to 12 hours after taking the tablet
  • Taking the tablet at bedtime usually produces a result the following morning
  • The higher 15mg dose in Max Strength formulation is suited to those who have not responded adequately to standard-strength senna

 

Who Is Senokot Max Strength Suitable For?

 

This product is intended for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. It is particularly useful when standard laxatives haven't provided sufficient relief. That said, it isn't right for everyone — and it's worth reading the full patient information before you start.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with occasional constipation
  • Young people aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
  • Those who have not responded to lower-strength senna or dietary changes
  • Patients who prefer a tablet format over liquid or powder laxatives

It is not suitable for children under 12, and it should not be used if you have an intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or unexplained abdominal pain. If your constipation is linked to other digestive symptoms, our IBS and cramps range may also be worth exploring alongside advice from your GP.

 

How Does Senokot Max Strength Compare to Standard Senokot?

 

Feature Senokot Max Strength Senokot Standard
Active ingredient Senna 15mg per tablet Senna 7.5mg per tablet
Adult dose 2 tablets once daily 2–4 tablets once daily
Suitable age 12 years and over 12 years and over
OTC availability Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Senokot Max Strength Tablets?

 

Store Senokot Max Strength tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the pack out of sight and reach of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging — using out-of-date medicines is never advisable, even if the tablets look unchanged.

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.

Senokot Max Strength 10 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates colonic peristalsis and reduces water absorption
Effective Within 8–12 hours
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Senna (as sennosides) 15mg per tablet
Pack sizes 10 tablets
Strengths 15mg senna per tablet
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Stimulant laxative (anthraquinone)
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Senokot Max Strength 10 Tablets

 

What Is Senokot Max Strength and What Is It Used For?

 

Senokot Max Strength is a stimulant laxative used to treat occasional constipation in adults and young people aged 12 and over. Each tablet contains 15mg of senna — a naturally derived active ingredient from the Cassia senna plant. Constipation is defined by the NHS as passing fewer than three stools per week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Senokot Max Strength tablets are intended for short-term use only and should not replace dietary and lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake, drinking more fluids, and staying physically active.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Senokot Max Strength?

 

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

  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have a known or suspected intestinal obstruction or ileus
  • You have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
  • You have unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • You are allergic to senna or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You have severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The NHS advises that bulk-forming laxatives are usually the first choice during pregnancy, and stimulant laxatives should only be used on medical advice. Use with caution if you are taking the following medicines, as interactions may occur:

  • Diuretics (water tablets) — risk of electrolyte imbalance with prolonged use
  • Cardiac glycosides such as digoxin — electrolyte disturbances may increase sensitivity
  • Other laxatives — avoid combining without pharmacist guidance

 

How Should You Use Senokot Max Strength?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before taking this medicine. Follow these steps for correct use:

  1. Take 2 tablets once daily, preferably at bedtime
  2. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water
  3. Do not crush or chew the tablets
  4. Expect a bowel movement within 8 to 12 hours of taking the dose
  5. Do not take more than 2 tablets in any 24-hour period
  6. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without medical advice
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Duration
Adults (18+) 2 tablets Once daily at bedtime 7 days
Young people (12–17) 2 tablets Once daily at bedtime 7 days (under adult supervision)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Senokot Max Strength?

 

Like all medicines, Senokot Max Strength can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you develop severe abdominal pain or notice blood in your stool, stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice promptly. You may also find it helpful to explore our diarrhoea treatments if loose stools become a problem after use.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Diarrhoea
  • Nausea

Less common side effects:

  • Discolouration of urine (harmless — may appear yellow-brown or reddish)
  • Electrolyte disturbances with prolonged use (low potassium)
  • Skin reactions such as rash or urticaria (rare)

 

How Should You Store Senokot Max Strength?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your medicine. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you're managing other digestive health concerns alongside constipation, our indigestion range offers a variety of options to support your gut health. And if you're looking to support your overall wellbeing, our vitamins and supplements collection includes fibre supplements that may help maintain regularity long-term.

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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 Senokot Max Strength tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Senokot Max Strength 10 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy in the UK. No prescription is needed as this is an over-the-counter medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched promptly to your door. You can also browse our full constipation treatments range for additional options.

How do Senokot Max Strength tablets work in the body?

Senokot Max Strength tablets contain senna, a stimulant laxative derived from the Cassia senna plant. Once swallowed, gut bacteria convert senna into active compounds that stimulate the nerve plexus in the bowel wall, triggering peristaltic contractions. This encourages the bowel to move stool along and expel it, typically within 8 to 12 hours of taking the tablet.

How do I use Senokot Max Strength step by step?

Take 2 tablets once daily, ideally at bedtime, swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Expect a bowel movement the following morning, roughly 8 to 12 hours after taking the dose. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours, and do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without speaking to a healthcare professional.

What is the best time to take Senokot Max Strength tablets?

The recommended time to take Senokot Max Strength is at bedtime. Because senna typically takes 8 to 12 hours to produce a bowel movement, taking the tablets in the evening means you are likely to experience the effect the following morning — which fits naturally into most people's daily routines. Consistency in timing can also help your body respond more predictably.

What are the side effects of Senokot Max Strength and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and nausea. These are usually mild and short-lived. If you experience diarrhoea, make sure you stay well hydrated and consider reducing your dose. If cramps are severe or you notice blood in your stool, stop taking the tablets and contact your GP or pharmacist promptly. Our diarrhoea treatments range may help if loose stools become a concern.

Who is eligible to take Senokot Max Strength tablets?

Senokot Max Strength is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. It is not suitable for children under 12, or for anyone with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or unexplained abdominal pain. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor or midwife before use, as stimulant laxatives are not usually the first-line recommendation during pregnancy.

What happens if I miss a dose of Senokot Max Strength?

If you forget to take your dose at bedtime, simply take it the following evening as normal. Do not double up your dose to make up for a missed one. Because Senokot Max Strength is used on an as-needed basis for occasional constipation rather than as a daily maintenance medicine, missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any problems.

What are the alternatives to Senokot Max Strength tablets?

There are several types of laxative available in the UK, each working differently. Bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel) increase stool bulk and are often the first choice recommended by the NHS. Osmotic laxatives such as macrogol (Movicol) or lactulose draw water into the bowel to soften stools. Standard-strength Senokot tablets (7.5mg senna) are a lower-dose alternative if you find Max Strength too strong. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right option for your situation.

How long can you use Senokot Max Strength for?

Senokot Max Strength should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days without medical advice. Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence, electrolyte imbalances, and reduced bowel function over time. If your constipation persists beyond a week despite treatment, you should speak to your GP to investigate any underlying cause. Long-term constipation management usually involves dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and regular physical activity.

Can I take Senokot Max Strength if I am pregnant?

You should speak to your doctor or midwife before taking Senokot Max Strength during pregnancy. The NHS recommends bulk-forming laxatives as the first-line treatment for constipation in pregnancy, as they are considered safer. Stimulant laxatives like senna are generally avoided unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional, particularly during the first trimester.

Can Senokot Max Strength tablets interact with other medicines?

Senokot Max Strength may interact with certain medicines if used long-term. Diuretics (water tablets) and cardiac glycosides such as digoxin may be affected by electrolyte disturbances caused by prolonged senna use. If you are taking any regular prescription medicines, always check with your pharmacist before starting a new laxative. Short-term use at the recommended dose is unlikely to cause clinically significant interactions for most people.

Is Senokot Max Strength suitable for people with IBS?

Senokot Max Strength is not generally recommended for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly those with IBS-D (diarrhoea-predominant) or those who experience significant abdominal cramping. Stimulant laxatives can worsen cramping and unpredictable bowel habits in IBS sufferers. If you have IBS and are struggling with constipation, visit our IBS and cramps range for more suitable options, and speak to your GP for personalised advice.

Will Senokot Max Strength discolour my urine?

Yes, senna can cause a harmless discolouration of the urine, which may appear yellow-brown or reddish. This is a known and benign effect of the anthraquinone compounds in senna and is nothing to worry about. It typically resolves once you stop taking the tablets. However, if you notice blood in your urine or stool, that is a different matter entirely and you should seek medical advice promptly.

How does Senokot Max Strength differ from other senna laxative tablets?

Senokot Max Strength contains 15mg of senna per tablet, which is double the dose found in standard Senokot tablets (7.5mg). This makes it more suitable for people who have not achieved adequate relief from lower-strength senna products. The tablet format is also convenient and easy to swallow compared to liquid or granule alternatives. As with all stimulant laxatives, it should still only be used short-term.

What is the latest guidance on using senna for constipation?

Current NHS and NICE guidance recommends that stimulant laxatives such as senna are appropriate for short-term relief of constipation when dietary and lifestyle measures have not been sufficient. They are considered second-line after bulk-forming and osmotic laxatives in most cases. The guidance emphasises that laxatives should not be used for more than a week without medical review, and that addressing underlying causes — such as low fibre intake or dehydration — remains the priority for long-term management.

How Should You Use Senokot Max Strength?

Senokot Max Strength tablets are straightforward to use, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully to get the best results and avoid unnecessary side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet included in your pack before you start. Here is a step-by-step guide to taking this medicine correctly:

What Is the Correct Dose of Senokot Max Strength?

The dose varies depending on age. Always use the lowest effective dose and do not exceed the maximum stated below. If you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for you, ask your pharmacist before taking it.

When Is the Best Time to Use Senokot Max Strength?

The ideal time to take Senokot Max Strength is at bedtime. Because senna takes 8 to 12 hours to produce a bowel movement, an evening dose aligns the effect with your morning routine — meaning you're less likely to be caught off guard during the day. Consistency matters too; taking the tablet at roughly the same time each evening can help your body respond more predictably. Avoid taking it on an empty stomach if you find it causes nausea.

How Long Can You Use Senokot Max Strength For?

Senokot Max Strength is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 7 consecutive days without first speaking to your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives can lead to electrolyte imbalances, reduced bowel muscle tone, and a reliance on laxatives to maintain regular bowel movements. If constipation is a recurring problem for you, it's worth discussing longer-term management strategies with your GP — these typically include increasing dietary fibre, drinking more water, and regular physical activity. Laxatives are a short-term aid, not a long-term solution.

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 Senokot Max Strength?

Most people tolerate Senokot Max Strength well when taken at the recommended dose for a short period. However, as with any stimulant laxative, some side effects can occur. The most frequently reported ones are related to the bowel itself, which makes sense given how senna works.

  • Abdominal cramps or griping pains
  • Diarrhoea — particularly if the dose is too high for you
  • Nausea, especially if taken on an empty stomach
  • Bloating or flatulence

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Senokot Max Strength?

Less common side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve once you stop taking the tablets. One that often surprises people is a change in urine colour — this is harmless and caused by the anthraquinone compounds in senna being excreted by the kidneys.

  • Discolouration of urine (yellow-brown or reddish tint) — harmless and temporary
  • Electrolyte disturbances, particularly low potassium (hypokalaemia), with prolonged use
  • Skin rash or urticaria — rare allergic-type reactions
  • Weakness or fatigue if electrolyte levels are affected by overuse

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Senokot Max Strength?

Serious side effects from Senokot Max Strength are uncommon when the product is used correctly and for no longer than 7 days. However, you should stop taking the tablets immediately and seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Signs of a serious allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing
  • Muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat (possible signs of low potassium)

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Senokot Max Strength?

If you experience mild side effects such as cramps or loose stools, try reducing your fluid intake slightly and ensure you are well hydrated throughout the day. Mild nausea can sometimes be eased by taking the tablets with a small amount of food. If side effects are persistent, worsening, or causing you significant distress, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Senokot Max Strength Interact With Other Medicines?

Senokot Max Strength is unlikely to cause significant drug interactions when used short-term at the recommended dose. However, caution is advised if you are taking diuretics (water tablets), as both can affect potassium levels — combining them over a prolonged period increases the risk of hypokalaemia. Similarly, if you take digoxin or other cardiac glycosides, electrolyte disturbances caused by laxative overuse could increase your sensitivity to these medicines. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are taking before starting a new laxative. Do not combine Senokot Max Strength with other laxatives without professional guidance.

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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