Senna glycoside (None)

Senna glycoside (also called sennoside or senna) is the pharmacologically active compound group derived from the leaves and pods of the Senna plant. These glycosides exert a stimulant laxative effect by irritating the lining of the large intestine, triggering muscular contractions and increasing fluid secretion, which aids in bowel movements for the treatment of constipation and bowel evacuation before procedures. Senna glycosides are available as over-the-counter oral and rectal medications and are included on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. Adverse effects of senna glycosides include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and, with long-term use, risk of dependency, abnormal colon pigmentation (melanosis coli), and possible carcinogenicity. Senna itself is not a molecule, receptor, or drug target, but is the source from which sennosides are extracted.

Other names

sennosidesennosidessennasenna glycosidesenna extractsenna leaf

Stimulation of peristalsis (colonic muscle contractions) Irritation of colonic mucosa (triggering increased fluid secretion and motility) Metabolite effects: Rheinanthrone and rhein excite enteric neurons, promote prostaglandin, chloride, water secretion Inhibition of aquaporin 3 (reduces water reabsorption, increases fecal water content)