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Senokot Max Strength - 24 Tablets

Senokot Max Strength - 24 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves occasional constipation with max-strength senna extract
  • ✔️ Works overnight — bowel movement expected within 8–12 hours
  • ✔️ Each tablet contains 15mg sennoside B for effective stimulant action
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ 24-tablet pack provides a practical short-term treatment course

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What Are Senna Tablets for Constipation?

 

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting around one in seven adults at any given time. It can leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and frankly miserable. Senna tablets for constipation have been used for decades as a reliable, clinically recognised option for short-term relief — and Senokot Max Strength is one of the most trusted names in that category. Each pack contains 24 tablets, giving you a practical supply to get things moving again. You can browse the full range of constipation treatments in our constipation collection.

Senokot Max Strength tablets contain a higher dose of senna extract than standard Senokot, making them suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who need a little more support. At just £5.89 for 24 tablets, they offer straightforward, no-fuss relief without a prescription.

 

How Does Senokot Max Strength Work?

 

Senna is a natural plant-derived stimulant laxative. It works by acting directly on the muscles of the large intestine (colon). Here is a simple breakdown of the mechanism:

  • Senna contains compounds called anthraquinone glycosides (sennosides).
  • Once swallowed, these pass through the small intestine largely unchanged.
  • Gut bacteria in the colon convert them into active metabolites.
  • These metabolites stimulate the smooth muscle of the bowel wall to contract.
  • The contractions (peristalsis) push stool along and trigger a bowel movement.
  • The effect typically occurs within 8 to 12 hours of taking the tablet.

Because the action is localised to the large intestine, senna does not significantly affect nutrient absorption in the small bowel when used as directed.

 

Who Should Use Senokot Max Strength Tablets?

 

Senokot Max Strength is designed for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. It is particularly useful when you need reliable, overnight relief. That said, it is not right for everyone.

It may be suitable for you if:

  • You are an adult or aged 12 or over experiencing short-term constipation.
  • You have tried dietary changes (more fibre, fluids) but still need additional support.
  • You need a stimulant laxative that works while you sleep.
  • You have used standard-strength senna before without adequate effect.

If your constipation is persistent, unexplained, or accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in your stools or significant weight loss, you should speak to your GP before using any laxative.

 

How Does Senokot Max Strength Compare to Standard Senokot?

 

Feature Senokot Max Strength Senokot Standard
Active ingredient Senna extract 15mg sennoside B per tablet Senna extract 7.5mg sennoside B per tablet
Adult dose 2 tablets at bedtime 2–4 tablets at bedtime
Suitable age 12 years and over 12 years and over
Onset of action 8–12 hours 8–12 hours

 

Is Senokot Max Strength Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes, provided you follow a few simple guidelines. Store the tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack. If you are managing other digestive concerns alongside constipation — such as bloating or cramping — you may also find it helpful to explore our IBS and cramps collection for complementary options.

Senna tablets for constipation are generally well tolerated when used correctly, but like all medicines, they carry some risk of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet before use.

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 24 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates colonic peristalsis via anthraquinone glycosides
Effective for Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Senna extract equivalent to 15mg sennoside B per tablet
Pack size 24 tablets
Strength Max Strength (15mg sennoside B per tablet)
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Stimulant laxative
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Senokot Max Strength 24 Tablets

 

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

 

Senokot Max Strength tablets are an over-the-counter stimulant laxative used for the short-term relief of occasional constipation. Each tablet contains senna extract equivalent to 15mg of sennoside B, which is the active compound responsible for the laxative effect. The NHS describes constipation as passing fewer than three stools per week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Senokot Max Strength is intended to help restore normal bowel function when dietary measures alone have not been sufficient.

This product is not a treatment for the underlying cause of constipation. It is a symptomatic remedy for occasional use. If you find yourself relying on senna tablets for constipation regularly, it is worth speaking to your GP to rule out any underlying condition.

 

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

 

Before taking these tablets, check the following contraindications carefully:

  • Do not take if you have a known bowel obstruction or suspected intestinal blockage.
  • Do not take if you have inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) without medical advice.
  • Do not take if you have severe abdominal pain of unknown cause.
  • Do not take if you are severely dehydrated.
  • Not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
  • Consult your GP or midwife before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without medical supervision.

Regarding drug interactions, senna may affect the absorption or efficacy of certain medicines if taken at the same time. Known interactions to be aware of include:

  • Digoxin and other cardiac glycosides — prolonged use of senna can cause electrolyte imbalances (particularly low potassium) that may increase the risk of toxicity.
  • Diuretics — combined use may worsen potassium depletion.
  • Oral medicines generally — take other medicines at least 2 hours apart from senna to avoid any potential reduction in absorption.
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin — monitor closely if using laxatives long-term, as altered bowel transit can affect drug levels.

 

How Should You Use Senokot Max Strength?

 

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

  1. Check you are not contraindicated (see above).
  2. Take 2 tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not crush or chew the tablets — swallow them whole.
  4. Expect a bowel movement within 8 to 12 hours (typically the following morning).
  5. Do not take more than 2 tablets in any 24-hour period.
  6. If no effect after 3 days, consult your pharmacist or GP.
  7. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without medical advice.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Occasional constipation Adults and children 12+ 2 tablets Once daily at bedtime
Occasional constipation Under 12 years Not recommended

 

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 are also dealing with digestive discomfort beyond constipation, you might find it useful to explore our indigestion collection for additional support.

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

  • Abdominal cramps or pain
  • Loose stools or diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Discomfort or bloating

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Discolouration of urine (harmless — may appear yellow-brown or reddish)
  • Skin reactions such as rash or itching
  • Electrolyte imbalance with prolonged use (particularly low potassium)
  • Melanosis coli — a harmless darkening of the bowel lining with long-term use

Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stools, or symptoms of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

 

How Should You Store Senokot Max Strength?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the tablets. If you are also taking vitamins or supplements alongside your constipation treatment, our vitamins and supplements collection has a wide range of options to support your overall digestive health.

  • Store below 25°C.
  • Keep in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Do not store in a bathroom cabinet where humidity is high.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
  • Do not transfer tablets to another container — keep in original packaging.
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy.

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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 24 tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. Simply add the product to your basket and select your preferred delivery option at checkout. It is available without a prescription as it is classified as a General Sale List medicine.

How do senna tablets for constipation work in the body?

Senna contains anthraquinone glycosides called sennosides, which pass through the small intestine largely unchanged. Once they reach the colon, gut bacteria convert them into active compounds that stimulate the smooth muscle of the bowel wall to contract, pushing stool along and triggering a bowel movement. The effect typically occurs within 8 to 12 hours of taking the dose.

How do I take Senokot Max Strength step by step?

Take 2 tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew them. You should expect a bowel movement the following morning, roughly 8 to 12 hours later. Do not exceed 2 tablets in any 24-hour period, and do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

What is the best time to take Senokot Max Strength?

Bedtime is the recommended time, as the tablets take 8 to 12 hours to produce a bowel movement. Taking them at night means the effect is most likely to occur in the morning, which fits naturally into most people's routines. Avoid taking them during the day if you need to be away from home, as the timing of the effect can be unpredictable.

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

The most common side effects are abdominal cramps, loose stools, and nausea — these are usually mild and resolve once the bowel movement has occurred. Staying well hydrated can help reduce cramping. If you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stools, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop taking the tablets immediately and contact your GP or call 111.

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, and should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding under medical supervision. People with bowel obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe abdominal pain should not take it without first consulting a doctor.

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 night — do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. Senokot Max Strength is taken on an as-needed basis rather than as a fixed daily regimen, so missing one night is not a clinical concern. If constipation persists after several days, speak to your pharmacist.

How long can you take senna tablets for constipation?

Senokot Max Strength is intended for short-term use only — no more than 7 consecutive days without medical advice. Long-term or excessive use of stimulant laxatives can lead to electrolyte imbalances, dependency, and a condition called melanosis coli (harmless darkening of the bowel lining). If you find you need a laxative regularly, speak to your GP about the underlying cause of your constipation.

What are the alternatives to Senokot Max Strength for constipation?

There are several types of laxative available, each working differently. Bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel) increase stool bulk; osmotic laxatives such as lactulose draw water into the bowel; and stool softeners such as docusate sodium make stools easier to pass. You can explore the full range in our constipation collection. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option for your situation.

Can I take Senokot Max Strength if I am pregnant?

You should consult your GP or midwife before taking Senokot Max Strength during pregnancy. While senna is sometimes used in pregnancy under medical supervision, it is not recommended for routine self-treatment without professional guidance. Dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and bulk-forming laxatives are generally considered the first-line approach to constipation in pregnancy.

Can Senokot Max Strength interact with other medicines I am taking?

Yes, senna can interact with certain medicines. It may worsen potassium depletion when taken alongside diuretics, and can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity if electrolyte levels drop. It is advisable to take other oral medicines at least 2 hours apart from senna to avoid any potential effect on absorption. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking before starting a new one.

Is Senokot Max Strength suitable for people with IBS?

Stimulant laxatives like senna are generally not recommended as a first-line treatment for constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as they can sometimes worsen cramping and bloating. If you have IBS-related constipation, speak to your GP or pharmacist about more suitable options. You can also browse our IBS and cramps collection for products specifically aimed at IBS symptoms.

Will Senokot Max Strength cause dependency or make my bowel lazy?

When used as directed for short periods (up to 7 days), the risk of dependency is low. However, prolonged or excessive use of stimulant laxatives can reduce the bowel's natural ability to function independently over time. This is why Senokot Max Strength is recommended only for occasional, short-term use — not as a long-term solution to constipation.

What are the latest findings on senna as a laxative treatment?

Senna remains a well-established and widely recommended stimulant laxative in UK clinical practice, referenced in both the NHS and the British National Formulary (BNF). Current guidance continues to support its short-term use for occasional constipation in adults and children aged 12 and over. There is no new evidence suggesting it should be replaced for its intended indication, though lifestyle measures such as increased dietary fibre and fluid intake remain the cornerstone of constipation management.

Does Senokot Max Strength contain any allergens or animal-derived ingredients?

Senokot Max Strength tablets do not contain gluten, but you should check the full patient information leaflet for a complete list of excipients if you have known allergies or sensitivities. The tablets are not confirmed as vegan-friendly by the manufacturer, so if this is important to you, check the current product labelling or contact the manufacturer directly before purchasing.

How Should You Use Senokot Max Strength?

Senokot Max Strength tablets are straightforward to use, but following the correct steps ensures you get the best result with the least risk of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet included in the pack before you start.

Increasing your dietary fibre intake and drinking plenty of fluids alongside the tablets will support your bowel health and may reduce the duration of treatment needed.

What Is the Correct Dose of Senokot Max Strength?

The dose depends on your age. Do not exceed the stated dose. If you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for you, speak to your pharmacist before taking it.

When Is the Best Time to Use Senokot Max Strength?

Take Senokot Max Strength at bedtime. Because senna takes 8 to 12 hours to work, a bedtime dose means the bowel movement is most likely to occur in the morning — which is more convenient and less disruptive to your day. Avoid taking the tablets in the morning or afternoon if you need to be away from home, as the timing of the effect can vary between individuals.

Taking the tablets with a full glass of water and ensuring you are well hydrated throughout the day will help the medicine work as effectively as possible.

How Long Can You Use Senokot Max Strength For?

Senokot Max Strength is intended for short-term use only. Do not take it for more than 7 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. If your constipation has not resolved within this period, or if it returns frequently, you should seek medical advice to identify any underlying cause.

Long-term use of stimulant laxatives without medical supervision is not recommended, as it can lead to electrolyte imbalances and may reduce the bowel's natural motility over time. Lifestyle changes — including a high-fibre diet, adequate fluid intake, and regular physical activity — remain the most sustainable approach to preventing constipation.

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 as directed, but some side effects can occur. The most common ones are related to the stimulant action of senna on the bowel and are usually mild and short-lived.

  • Abdominal cramps or stomach pain
  • Loose stools or diarrhoea
  • Nausea
  • Bloating or flatulence

These effects typically resolve once the bowel movement has occurred. Staying well hydrated can help reduce cramping. If diarrhoea is severe or prolonged, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist.

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

Less common side effects are experienced by fewer people but are still worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Discolouration of urine — may appear yellow-brown or reddish; this is harmless and temporary.
  • Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives.
  • Electrolyte imbalance (particularly low potassium) — more likely with prolonged or excessive use.
  • Melanosis coli — a harmless darkening of the bowel lining that can occur with long-term senna use and is reversible on stopping.

If you notice any unusual skin reactions or feel generally unwell while taking these tablets, stop use and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Senokot Max Strength?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking Senokot Max Strength and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stools or rectal bleeding
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; or a widespread skin rash
  • Muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or extreme fatigue (which may indicate low potassium levels)

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition and should not be ignored.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as cramping or loose stools, reducing your fluid intake of caffeine and alcohol, staying hydrated with water, and resting should help. If side effects are moderate or do not resolve after the bowel movement, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Do not take additional doses to try to speed up the effect — this increases the risk of side effects without improving the outcome.

Can Senokot Max Strength Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Senna can interact with several medicines, particularly when used for longer than recommended. The most clinically significant interactions include digoxin and other cardiac glycosides (where low potassium caused by senna can increase toxicity risk), diuretics (which may compound electrolyte loss), and anticoagulants such as warfarin. It is also advisable to take other oral medicines at least 2 hours apart from senna to avoid any potential effect on their absorption. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking before starting Senokot Max Strength.

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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