Senokot granules
Senokot granules were a granular oral formulation of standardized sennosides marketed under the Senokot brand for the short-term relief of constipation. As a stimulant laxative, senna increases intestinal motility and generally produces a bowel movement within 6–12 hours. The granules were typically cocoa-flavoured and could be taken plain, mixed with liquids, or sprinkled on food. Some guidance for granule use notes that they ‘‘may be eaten plain, mixed with liquids such as milk, or sprinkled on foods,’’ and that they are often taken at bedtime.
Although tablets and syrups containing senna remain widely available under the Senokot brand, the specific Senokot granules product has been discontinued in several markets.
History
Senokot granules were widely used in the mid-20th century and appear in period medical literature and collections. A 1963 clinical study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal explicitly used ‘‘Senokot Granules’’ in nursing mothers and found no adverse effects on infant bowel habits. The Science Museum Group catalogues a ‘‘Tin of Senokot granules ’’ produced by Westminster Laboratories, dated 1950–1980.Medical uses
Like other stimulant laxatives, senna is indicated for the short-term treatment of occasional constipation. The effect typically occurs 6–12 hours after an oral dose, so products are commonly taken at bedtime. Guidance for children’s use of senna also mentions an oral granules presentation among available forms.Formulation and administration
Senokot granules contained standardized senna concentrate. Historic usage instructions indicated the granules could be taken plain, mixed with liquids, or sprinkled over foods, and were preferably taken at bedtime. Independent consumer listings for the discontinued product describe a cocoa-flavoured granule with per-teaspoon sennoside content and age-stratified dosing schedules.Safety
Adverse effects of senna may include abdominal cramping and, rarely, rectal bleeding. Patient-facing guidance recommends short-term use and adequate fluid intake while using senna. In paediatrics, granules are one of several oral forms, and mixing with drinks/food is advised with adequate water afterwards.Regulatory and market status
In Canada, Health Canada’s Drug and Health Products Portal lists SENOKOT GRANULES with status ‘‘Cancelled Post Market’’ as of 13 July 2007. DrugBank also records ‘‘Senokot Granules, Powder, 326 mg / 3 g, Oral’’ with Canadian marketing from 31 December 1956 to 13 July 2007.In the United States, the FDA withdrew approval of NDA 009939 for ‘‘Senokot Granules, 15 mg’’ on 4 October 2016, as listed in a comprehensive withdrawal notice.