Senna

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 13, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Senna


Is senna a laxative or stool softener?

Senna is a laxative that is available over-the-counter to treat occasional constipation. It contains a natural vegetable laxative ingredient that stimulates intestinal movement. 



Is it okay to take senna daily?

It is okay to take senna daily for one week. You should not take senna for more than one week unless directed by a doctor. Long-term use of senna can lead to reduced natural bowel function and a dependence on laxatives. Call your health professional if your constipation is not better after one week of using senna. They can figure out what is causing your constipation and treat it properly.



How long does it take senna to make you poop?

It takes senna 6-12 hours to make you poop. If you take senna at bedtime, it can provide gentle overnight relief of constipation by causing you to have a bowel movement the next morning. 



Does senna detox your body?

You should not use senna to detox your body. While this medication can make you have a bowel movement in 6-12 hours, it should not be used for a detox cleanse or for weight loss. Doing so can lead to laxative dependence and other serious health effects like muscle weakness and liver damage.



Does senna damage the colon?

Research shows that senna may damage the epithelial cells that line the colon. However, it is unlikely to affect your ability to have bowel movements. Health professionals advise that senna should be taken for short-term relief of occasional constipation only unless directed by a doctor.



What is the price of senna without insurance?

Without insurance, senna can be as high as $28.00, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $5.88 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of senna with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on senna—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for senna. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.