Applies to docusate/senna: oral capsule, oral tablet.
Warning
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using docusate and senna and call your doctor at once if you have:
-
rectal bleeding;
-
severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
-
no bowel movement.
Common side effects may include:
-
gas, bloating;
-
diarrhea; or
-
mild nausea.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to docusate/senna: oral capsule, oral tablet.
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects of docusate have included gastrointestinal cramping.
Gastrointestinal side effects of senna have included esophageal impaction and duodenal bezoars. These effects have been reported in patients receiving a bulk laxative product containing 82% psyllium and 18% senna (commercially available as Perdiem Overnight Relief).[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
One case has been reported involving a factory worker who developed IgE-mediated asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis five months after exposure to senna.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity side effects of senna have rarely included occupational sensitization to senna.[Ref]
Metabolic
Metabolic side effects of docusate have included at least one case report of hypomagnesemia.[Ref]
Metabolic abnormalities reported include hypomagnesemia in one woman who took docusate chronically throughout her pregnancy. Magnesium levels returned to normal following discontinuation of docusate.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
Musculoskeletal side effects of senna have rarely included finger clubbing.[Ref]
Dermatologic
Dermatologic side effects of docusate have included rash.[Ref]