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Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief - 60 Tablets

Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief - 60 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves occasional constipation gently within 8–12 hours
  • ✔️ Plant-derived senna fruit extract for natural stimulant action
  • ✔️ Overnight dosing delivers predictable morning bowel movement
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ 60-tablet pack provides extended short-term constipation relief

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Are Senna Tablets for Constipation Right for You?

 

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting people of all ages at some point in their lives. When your bowel movements become infrequent, uncomfortable, or difficult to pass, it can affect your energy, mood, and daily routine. Senna tablets for constipation have been used for generations as a reliable, plant-derived option to get things moving again — and Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets is one of the most recognised names in that category. Available from Cured Pharmacy for just £5.66, it offers a straightforward, affordable solution for short-term constipation relief. If you're also managing related digestive discomfort, you might find our IBS and cramps collection useful alongside this product.

Each tablet contains a standardised dry extract of senna fruit, providing a consistent level of the active compounds — sennosides — that give senna its laxative effect. The "overnight" name isn't just marketing. It reflects how the medicine actually works: take it at bedtime, and it typically produces a bowel movement the following morning. That predictability is one of the reasons so many people reach for it when constipation strikes.

 

How Does Senokot Senna Fruit Work in the Body?

 

Senokot belongs to a class of medicines called stimulant laxatives. Unlike bulk-forming or osmotic laxatives, it works directly on the muscles of the large intestine. Here's what happens after you swallow a tablet:

  • Sennosides in the senna fruit extract pass through the small intestine largely unchanged.
  • Bacteria in the large intestine convert sennosides into their active form — rheinanthrone.
  • This active compound stimulates the nerve plexuses in the bowel wall, triggering peristaltic contractions.
  • The contractions move stool along the colon and towards the rectum, producing a bowel movement.
  • The process typically takes 8 to 12 hours, which is why bedtime dosing works so well.

It's a well-understood mechanism, and senna has a long history of clinical use. The NHS lists senna as one of the stimulant laxatives recommended for short-term constipation management.

 

Who Is Senokot Overnight Relief Suitable For?

 

This product is designed for adults and children aged 12 and over who are experiencing occasional constipation. It's particularly useful when you need reliable, timed relief — for example, before a medical procedure, after a period of reduced activity, or when dietary changes haven't been enough. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.

Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief may be suitable if you:

  • Are an adult or young person aged 12 or over experiencing occasional constipation
  • Want a predictable, overnight result rather than unpredictable daytime urgency
  • Prefer a plant-derived laxative over synthetic alternatives
  • Have not responded adequately to dietary fibre increases or increased fluid intake alone

It is not suitable for people with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, or unexplained abdominal pain. Always read the label before use.

 

How Does Senokot Compare to Other Laxative Types?

 

Feature Senokot Senna Fruit Tablets Ispaghula Husk (e.g. Fybogel)
Laxative type Stimulant Bulk-forming
Onset of action 8–12 hours 12–72 hours
Mechanism Stimulates bowel muscle contractions Increases stool bulk and water content
Suitable for short-term use Yes (up to 7 days) Yes (longer term with GP advice)

 

How Should You Store Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief Tablets?

 

Store your tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're browsing other health products alongside this one, our constipation collection includes a range of laxative options to suit different needs and preferences.

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 Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Constipation relief
Mechanism of action Stimulant laxative — stimulates large intestine muscle contractions via sennoside conversion
Effective Typically within 8–12 hours
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Senna fruit dry extract (providing 7.5 mg sennosides per tablet)
Pack size 60 tablets
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Stimulant laxative
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets

 

What Is Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief and What Is It Used For?

 

Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets is an over-the-counter stimulant laxative used to treat occasional constipation in adults and young people aged 12 and over. Its active ingredient is a standardised dry extract of senna fruit, which contains naturally occurring compounds called sennosides. These work by stimulating the muscles of the large intestine to produce a bowel movement, usually within 8 to 12 hours of taking the dose. The NHS recognises senna as an appropriate short-term treatment for constipation when dietary and lifestyle measures have not been sufficient.

Constipation is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to expel. It can be caused by a low-fibre diet, insufficient fluid intake, reduced physical activity, certain medicines (such as opioid painkillers or iron supplements), or changes in routine such as travel. Senokot is intended for short-term use only — it is not a substitute for addressing the underlying cause.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Senokot Senna Fruit Tablets?

 

Before taking this medicine, make sure it is appropriate for you. Do not take Senokot if any of the following apply:

  • You have a known allergy to senna or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You have or suspect you have an intestinal obstruction or ileus
  • You have inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • You have unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • You are a child under 12 years of age (unless specifically directed by a GP)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use

You should also be aware of the following potential drug interactions:

  • Diuretics and corticosteroids: Prolonged use of senna alongside these medicines may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance, particularly low potassium (hypokalaemia)
  • Cardiac glycosides (e.g. digoxin): Electrolyte disturbances caused by excessive laxative use may increase sensitivity to these medicines
  • Other laxatives: Combining stimulant laxatives with other laxative types without medical advice is not recommended

If you are taking any prescription medicines or have a long-term health condition, speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting this product. You can also explore our indigestion collection if you're experiencing related upper digestive symptoms alongside constipation.

 

How Should You Use Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief Correctly?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Taking them at bedtime is recommended so that the laxative effect occurs the following morning.

  1. Take the tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water (at least 200 ml)
  2. Swallow the tablets whole — do not crush or chew them
  3. Start with the lowest effective dose and increase only if needed
  4. Do not take more than the maximum recommended dose in any 24-hour period
  5. Continue to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day (at least 6–8 glasses)
  6. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without speaking to a healthcare professional
Age Group Starting Dose Maximum Dose Frequency
Adults and children aged 12+ 2 tablets 4 tablets Once daily at bedtime
Children under 12 Not recommended Not recommended Seek GP advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Senokot Senna Fruit Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Senokot can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve once you stop taking the medicine.

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

  • Abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Loose stools or diarrhoea
  • Reddish-brown discolouration of urine (harmless and temporary)
  • Flatulence (wind)

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

  • Nausea
  • Electrolyte imbalance with prolonged use (e.g. low potassium)
  • Skin reactions such as rash or urticaria (rare)
  • Discolouration of the colon lining with very long-term use (melanosis coli — reversible on stopping)

If you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stools, or symptoms that persist or worsen, stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice promptly. If you're managing bowel-related discomfort more broadly, our haemorrhoids and piles collection may also be relevant if straining has caused additional symptoms.

 

How Should You Store Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief Tablets?

 

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

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 Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief 60 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £5.66. No prescription is required as it is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine. It's a convenient option if you'd rather avoid a trip to the high street, and you can browse our full constipation collection for additional laxative options.

How do senna tablets for constipation work in the body?

Senna tablets contain naturally occurring compounds called sennosides, which pass through the small intestine and are converted by gut bacteria in the large intestine into an active form. This active compound stimulates the nerve networks in the bowel wall, triggering muscle contractions that move stool along and out of the body. The process typically takes 8 to 12 hours, which is why taking the tablet at bedtime usually results in a bowel movement the following morning.

How do I use Senokot Overnight Relief tablets step by step?

Take 2 tablets at bedtime with a full glass of water (at least 200 ml), swallowing them whole without crushing or chewing. If the starting dose is not effective after a couple of nights, you may increase to a maximum of 4 tablets, but do not exceed this amount in any 24-hour period. Continue drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day to support the laxative effect and reduce the risk of cramping.

What is the best time to take Senokot senna tablets?

Senokot Overnight Relief is specifically designed to be taken at bedtime, as the 8–12 hour onset means you'll typically experience a bowel movement the following morning. Taking it at a consistent time each evening also helps your body establish a more regular pattern. Avoid taking it in the morning if you need to be out and about, as the timing of the effect can be unpredictable if you deviate from the bedtime routine.

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

The most common side effects are abdominal cramps, loose stools, and temporary reddish-brown discolouration of urine — the last of which is harmless and caused by senna metabolites. Cramping can often be reduced by starting on the lowest dose (2 tablets) and ensuring you drink enough water throughout the day. If you experience severe pain, blood in your stools, or symptoms that don't improve, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Who should not take Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief tablets?

This product is not suitable for people with intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), or unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. It is not recommended for children under 12 years of age without specific GP guidance. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety profile in these groups requires individual assessment.

What happens if I miss a dose of Senokot?

If you forget to take your dose at bedtime, simply skip it and take the next dose the following evening as usual — do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. Senokot is intended for short-term, as-needed use rather than a strict daily regimen, so missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any problems. If constipation persists despite regular use, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

How long can you take Senokot senna tablets for?

Senokot should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives without addressing the underlying cause of constipation is not recommended, as it may lead to electrolyte imbalances and, with very long-term use, changes to the bowel lining. If constipation is a recurring problem, your GP can help identify the cause and recommend a longer-term management plan.

What are the alternatives to Senokot senna tablets for constipation?

There are several types of laxative available depending on your needs: bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel) increase stool bulk and are often the first recommendation; osmotic laxatives such as macrogol (Movicol) or lactulose draw water into the bowel; and stool softeners such as docusate sodium make stools easier to pass. You can explore a range of options in our IBS and cramps collection. The right choice depends on the type and duration of your constipation.

Can I take Senokot if I have IBS?

If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with constipation as a predominant symptom, senna tablets may provide short-term relief, but they are not a first-line treatment for IBS. The NHS recommends dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and specific IBS-targeted treatments as the primary approach. You should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using a stimulant laxative if you have a confirmed IBS diagnosis, as it may worsen cramping in some individuals.

Is Senokot safe to take during pregnancy?

Constipation is very common during pregnancy, but stimulant laxatives such as senna are generally not the first choice. The NHS advises that bulk-forming laxatives like ispaghula husk are usually preferred in pregnancy. If you are pregnant and considering senna tablets for constipation, you should speak to your midwife or GP before use to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Can Senokot interact with other medicines I am taking?

Yes, there are some important interactions to be aware of. Prolonged use of senna alongside diuretics or corticosteroids may increase the risk of low potassium (hypokalaemia), and this electrolyte imbalance can increase sensitivity to cardiac glycosides such as digoxin. If you are taking any prescription medicines, particularly for heart conditions or fluid retention, speak to your pharmacist before starting Senokot. Always mention all medicines — including supplements — when asking for advice.

Will Senokot cause me to become dependent on laxatives?

When used as directed for short periods (up to 7 days), Senokot is not considered to cause physical dependence in the clinical sense. However, relying on any stimulant laxative long-term without addressing the root cause of constipation is not advisable. The NHS recommends increasing dietary fibre, fluid intake, and physical activity as sustainable, long-term strategies for maintaining regular bowel habits.

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

Senna has been used medicinally for centuries and remains a well-established stimulant laxative recognised by the NHS and included in the British National Formulary (BNF). Current clinical guidance continues to support its short-term use for constipation in adults and children over 12. Research into the gut microbiome's role in converting sennosides to their active form has added further understanding of why senna works reliably within a predictable timeframe.

Does Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief contain any allergens or animal-derived ingredients?

Senokot tablets are derived from senna fruit, a plant-based source, and are generally considered suitable for vegetarians. However, the tablet coating and excipients may vary, so if you have specific dietary requirements or known allergies, you should check the full ingredients list on the product packaging or patient information leaflet before use. If you have any concerns, your pharmacist can help clarify suitability for your needs.

How Should You Use Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief Tablets?

Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief tablets are straightforward to use, but following the correct method helps ensure you get the best result with the least discomfort. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before starting, and speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions about whether this product is right for you.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief?

Always start with the lowest effective dose and only increase if needed. The maximum dose should not be exceeded in any 24-hour period. Taking more than the recommended amount does not speed up the effect and increases the risk of side effects such as cramping and diarrhoea.

When Is the Best Time to Use Senokot Overnight Relief Tablets?

The clue is in the name. Senokot Overnight Relief is formulated to be taken at bedtime so that its 8–12 hour onset aligns with your sleep cycle, producing a bowel movement the following morning. This timing makes it far more manageable than taking a stimulant laxative during the day, when the urgency could be inconvenient. Try to take it at a consistent time each evening if you are using it on consecutive nights.

Avoid taking the tablets in the morning or afternoon unless specifically advised to do so, as the unpredictable timing of the effect could cause discomfort at an inconvenient time.

How Long Can You Use Senokot Senna Fruit Overnight Relief For?

This product is intended for short-term use only. Do not use Senokot for more than 7 consecutive days without speaking to a healthcare professional. If constipation has not resolved within this period, there may be an underlying cause that requires investigation by your GP.

Long-term reliance on stimulant laxatives is not recommended. The NHS advises that sustainable management of constipation should focus on increasing dietary fibre, drinking adequate fluids, and maintaining regular physical activity. If you find yourself needing a laxative regularly, please discuss this with your GP or pharmacist.

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 Senna Fruit Overnight Relief?

Most people tolerate Senokot well when taken at the recommended dose for a short period. However, as with all stimulant laxatives, some side effects can occur. Common side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve once the medicine has worked or you stop taking it.

  • Abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Loose stools or diarrhoea
  • Flatulence (wind)
  • Reddish-brown discolouration of urine — this is harmless and caused by senna metabolites passing through the kidneys

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

Less common side effects are more likely to occur if the product is used at higher doses or for longer than the recommended 7-day period. If you notice any of the following, reduce your dose or stop use and speak to your pharmacist.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Electrolyte imbalance, particularly low potassium (hypokalaemia) — more likely with prolonged use alongside diuretics
  • Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or urticaria (hives)
  • Melanosis coli — a reversible darkening of the colon lining seen with very long-term stimulant laxative use; it resolves after stopping the medicine

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Senokot Senna Fruit Tablets?

Serious side effects from Senokot are rare when the product is used correctly and for the recommended duration. However, you should stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

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

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

For mild side effects such as cramping or loose stools, reducing your dose to 1 tablet and ensuring you drink plenty of water throughout the day can help. If side effects are moderate or do not improve within 24 hours of stopping the medicine, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk — this helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Do not restart the medicine without professional guidance if you have experienced a significant side effect.

Can Senokot Senna Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Senokot can interact with certain medicines, particularly when used for longer than recommended. The most clinically significant interactions include diuretics and corticosteroids, where combined use may increase the risk of low potassium levels. This electrolyte imbalance can in turn increase the risk of side effects from cardiac glycosides such as digoxin, including abnormal heart rhythms. If you are taking any prescription medicines, always inform your pharmacist before starting Senokot. This is especially important if you take medicines for heart conditions, blood pressure, or fluid retention.

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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