Brands
Senokot, Fletcher’s Castoria
Availability
- Tablets: wide range of dose strengths available.
- Liquid: 3 mg/mL
- Syrup: 8.8 mg/5ml
Pharmacology
A vegetable based laxative that increases peristalsis by its direct effect on smooth muscle in the intestine.
It is believed that the drug either irritates the musculature or stimulates the colonic intramural plexus, and promotes accumulation of fluid in the colon and small intestine.
Senna can be passed in small amounts in breast milk. Avoid giving to lactating rats.
Indications
Used in constipation to help improve intestinal motility.
Drug Interactions or Contraindications
- Senna should be used with caution if the rat is taking digoxin and / or diuretics (e.g., Lasix, hydrochlorothiazide) as the combination can decrease potassium level in blood.
- Contraindicated in intestinal perforation.
Adverse Reactions
GI: anorexia, malabsorption of nutrients, severe cramping, diarrhea
GU: pink discoloration in alkaline urine and yellow-brown discoloration in urine that is acidic.
Metabolic: hypokalemia(low potassium level in blood), protein losing enteropathy, electrolyte imbalance with too much use.
Dosage Recommendations
Considerations
- Ensure rat has adequate fluid and diet intake.
- Store at cool room temperature in a dry place, and away from direct heat and light.
