sennosid A + sennosid B

Sennosid A + sennosid B is a combination of two natural dianthrone glycosides, the primary active components found in senna (Cassia species) and rhubarb. This combination is used as a stimulant laxative for the short-term treatment of constipation and for bowel cleansing before medical procedures. The mechanism involves metabolism by gut bacteria to active metabolites (notably rheinanthrone), which increase prostaglandin E2 via cyclooxygenase 2 expression, decrease aquaporin 3 expression in colonic mucosa, restrict water reabsorption, and stimulate peristalsis in the large intestine. These effects result in increased fecal water content and promote bowel movements within 6–12 hours after administration[1][2][5]. Sennoside A may also have additional pharmacological activities such as anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and neuroprotective effects; however these are not primary indications[5]. Long-term or high-dose use can cause adverse effects including melanosis coli.

Brand names

Senna-laxSenokotPursennid

Other names

senna glycosidesennosidesSennoside A&B calcium salt