Vegetable Laxative Oral: Side Effects, Uses, Warnings

Side Effects

Stomach/abdominal pain or cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or weakness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

This medication may cause your urine to turn reddish-brown. This effect is harmless and will disappear when the medication is stopped.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

How long does it take for this medicine to take effect?

The time it takes for vegetable laxatives to take effect can vary significantly depending on the active ingredients. For example, bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium husk may take 12 to 24 hours to produce a bowel movement, whereas stimulant laxatives like senna can work more quickly, typically within 6 to 12 hours. The specific onset of action will depend on the formulation and the individual’s digestive system.

How long do the effects of this medicine last?

The effects of vegetable laxatives can also vary. Bulk-forming agents maintain their effect as long as they are taken daily and are accompanied by adequate fluid intake. Stimulant laxatives, on the other hand, have effects that last for a few hours after a bowel movement has occurred, and their use should be limited to short periods (usually not longer than a week) to avoid potential complications, such as dependency or alteration of normal bowel function.

Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking this medicine?

While there is no direct interaction between alcohol consumption and most vegetable laxatives, alcohol can exacerbate dehydration, especially if one is experiencing diarrhea or increased bowel movements due to the laxative. Dehydration can complicate constipation, potentially counteracting the desired effects of the laxative. It is generally advisable to moderate alcohol consumption and ensure adequate hydration when using any type of laxative.

Is this a habit forming medicine?

Bulk-forming laxatives are not habit-forming and are safe for long-term use. However, stimulant laxatives (including some vegetable-based options) can lead to dependency if used continuously for long periods, as the bowel can become reliant on them for initiating movements. It is important to use stimulant laxatives only as directed and not for prolonged periods without medical advice.

Can this medicine be taken during pregnancy?

Many vegetable laxatives are considered safe during pregnancy, as they act locally in the gut and are not absorbed systemically in significant amounts. However, it is crucial for pregnant women to consult with a healthcare provider before using any laxative, as changes in bowel habits are common in pregnancy, and the safety of specific laxative ingredients may vary.

Can this medicine be taken while breast-feeding?

Bulk-forming laxatives are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, as they are not absorbed into the bloodstream and, therefore, are unlikely to affect the breast milk or the infant. However, the safety of other types of vegetable laxatives during breastfeeding can depend on the specific ingredients. Nursing mothers should consult a healthcare professional to ensure the safety of any laxative product.

Uses

Sennosides are used to treat constipation. They may also be used to clean out the intestines before a bowel examination/surgery. Sennosides are known as stimulant laxatives. They work by keeping water in the intestines, which causes movement of the intestines.

How to use Vegetable Laxative oral

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the dissolving strips, allow each strip to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Serious side effects may occur with overuse of this medication .

It may take 6 to 12 hours before this medication causes a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Precautions

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to senna; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum, intestinal blockage.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Chewable tablets or dissolving strips may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid sugar in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Using it for long periods during pregnancy is not recommended. Consult your doctor for more details.

This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting/diarrhea that doesn’t stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain or cramping.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

If your doctor has directed you to take this medication on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.