Sennoside A/B

It is an anthraquinone stimulant laxative. It is extracted from the leaves, fruits and flowers of the bush known as Senna, Sen, Sen of Alexandria, Indian Senna or Tinnevelly Senna. It contains anthraquinones, naphtoquinones, flavonoids, mineral salts, polysaccharides (mucilage). Used to treat constipation and for bowel movement before diagnostic procedures or surgery. Oral administration.

Practically nothing is absorbed in the digestive tract and the high molecular weight of sennoside makes it difficult for it to pass into breast milk, which explains why levels have not been found in breast milk or have been insignificant ^{(Faber 1989 & 88, Werthmann 1973)} and no problems have been observed in infants whose mothers were taking it. ^{(Faber 1988, Shelton 1980, Baldwin 1963, Duncan 1957)}

There is a risk of hepatotoxicity if prolonged or excessive use. ^{(Bunchorntavakul 2013)}

Several medical societies and expert authors consider the use of this medication compatible with breastfeeding. ^{(Briggs 2015, Nice 2000, Hagemann 1998, Gattuso 1994)}

American Academy of Pediatrics: Maternal Medication Usually Compatible With Breastfeeding ^{(AAP 2001)}. Eleventh WHO Model List of Essential Drugs 2002: Compatible with breastfeeding. ^{(WHO 2002)}