S.D.Lax

SD Lax Tablets by Simorgh Darou

Dosage Form and Packaging

• Tablets for constipation relief and laxative purposes
• Packaging: 30 tablets in three blister packs, enclosed in a cardboard box with a consumer information leaflet

Standardization

Each tablet contains 17 mg of sennosides.

Composition

Each tablet includes:

• Senna leaves and extract: 550 mg
• Fennel oil: 95 mg

Indications

• Acts as a laxative and purgative for:
  • Treatment of constipation
  • Management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Relief of hemorrhoids and anal fissures
  • Bowel clearance prior to diagnostic tests

Dosage and Administration

• Adults and children ≥12 years:
  • As a laxative: 1–2 tablets daily
  • As a purgative: 2–4 tablets before bedtime
• Children 6–12 years: Use half the adult dose.
• Children <6 years: Consult a physician prior to use.
• Elderly: Begin with half the usual dose and adjust as needed.

Recommended administration: Take before bedtime with 1–2 glasses of water.

Pharmacological Effects and Mechanism of Action

• Senna: A stimulant laxative. Senna contains anthraquinone glycosides, which are hydrolyzed in the gut to release active anthraquinones. These stimulate intestinal peristalsis, reducing fluid absorption time due to faster intestinal transit. Laxative effects typically occur within 6–12 hours of oral administration.
• Fennel oil: Added to reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as cramping. Its antispasmodic and carminative properties help prevent and alleviate abdominal discomfort and bloating.

Adverse Effects

• Common side effects:
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. Discontinue use if these occur.
• Prolonged use may result in:
  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., potassium depletion), leading to hypokalemia, hyperaldosteronism, albuminuria, hematuria, intestinal paralysis, and muscle weakness.
  • Melanosis coli (discoloration of the colon), which is reversible upon discontinuation.

Drug Interactions

• Senna interacts with:
  • Digitalis glycosides (e.g., digoxin): Increases toxicity risk due to hypokalemia.
  • Antiarrhythmic drugs, diuretics, and corticosteroids: Risk of severe electrolyte imbalances.
  • Warfarin: Potential for altered anticoagulation effects.
  • Estrogen, indomethacin, nifedipine: Possible reduced efficacy or adverse interactions.
• Avoid concurrent use with these medications.

Contraindications and Warnings

• Absolute contraindications:
  • Intestinal obstruction, acute inflammatory bowel conditions, and appendicitis.
• Do not use in cases of:
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting of unknown cause.
• Avoid long-term use (exceeding two weeks) without medical supervision, as it may weaken colonic muscles and cause electrolyte depletion (especially potassium).
• Discontinue use if rectal bleeding or difficulty passing stools occurs, and consult a physician.
• Avoid in pregnancy and lactation.

Special Precautions

• Pediatric caution: Do not administer to children <2 years of age.
• In case of accidental overdose, consult a physician immediately.

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30°C, away from light, moisture, and out of the reach of children.