Senna (sonamukhi)

Herbal stimulant laxative
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Senna is a herbal stimulant laxative found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Softovac. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: sonamukhi, sennosides

What it is used for

Relieves occasional constipation, often overnight.

How it works

A plant stimulant laxative (sonamukhi) that works in 8 to 12 hours.

How to take it

Usually 7.5 to 15 mg at bedtime; short-term use only.

Common side effects

  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhoea
  • Brown urine

Get medical help straight away if

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Severe pain
  • Constipation lasting more than a week

Be careful

For short-term use; can cause cramps. Long-term daily use is not advised.

Other medicines and interactions

Long use lowers potassium (worse with diuretics, steroids and digoxin).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Use other laxatives first in pregnancy; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Senna (1)

Softovac

Common questions

What is Senna used for?

Relieves occasional constipation, often overnight.

How does Senna work?

A plant stimulant laxative (sonamukhi) that works in 8 to 12 hours.

How should I take Senna?

Usually 7.5 to 15 mg at bedtime; short-term use only.

What are the side effects of Senna?

Common: Stomach cramps, diarrhoea, brown urine. Get help straight away for: Rectal bleeding, severe pain, constipation lasting more than a week.

Does Senna interact with other medicines?

Long use lowers potassium (worse with diuretics, steroids and digoxin).

Is Senna safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Use other laxatives first in pregnancy; acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Senna need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Senna?

Softovac.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.