Best Senokot Alternative

The ValuMeds Senna-S is a trusty over-the-counter, FDA-approved solution for constipation. Offering the same benefits as the well-known Senokot brand, this stool softener and laxative can work its gentle magic on the severest cases of constipation.

What makes the ValuMeds Senna-S special is that unlike other types of laxatives, it not only stimulates bowel movements, but also makes it easier to pass the clogged-up stool. It’s perfect for people who need a highly effective, yet extremely gentle alleviation against their constipation.

Whether you’ve been constipated for days or just started noticing discomfort, ValuMeds Senna-S is the ultimate OTC solution. What’s more is that it’s safe for children of all ages.

You can take this medicine orally with water. While the exact time varies from person to person (as each individual has their own unique biochemistry), on average it takes the ValuMeds Senna-S 6 to 12 hours to work. For that reason, it’s recommended to take this medicine at bedtime so it can work its magic overnight.

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 12 years or above is 2 tablets per day. You may consult your physician to inquire a suitable dosage based on your medical history.

How Does ValuMeds Senna-S Work?

The ValuMeds Senna-S works relatively quicker than most laxatives, with very little chances of adverse side effects. This product has two active ingredients – docusate sodium (50 mg) and Sennosides (8.6 mg). The well-known Senokot brand uses the same active ingredients.

Docusate sodium belongs to a special category of laxatives known as “stool softeners.” They do exactly what their name suggests – they make your stool softer, making it easier to pass them. In medical terms, these laxatives increase the amount of moisture in the stool, making it softer and promoting a gentle, strain-free bowel movement.

On the other hand, Sennosides is a vegetable laxative ingredient, derived from the Senna plant. It falls under the category of stimulant laxatives. They work by irritating the intestinal walls, causing contractions, and increasing the amount of water in the intestines. All of this contributes to a bowel movement.

With Sennosides stimulating the intestines and docusate sodium further helping move the stool by softening it, you may experience a powerful overnight relief with just a single dose. It will be as if you never even had constipation.

In addition to the two compounds listed above, this product also uses different inactive ingredients, like magnesium stearate, sodium benzoate, and colloidal silicon dioxide, among others.

Are There any Side Effects of ValuMeds Senna-S?

While the ValuMeds Senna-S is an extremely safe laxative, there are some possible side effects (as they are with almost every medicine on the planet).

Some common side effects include:

• Abdominal Pain – this is a common side effect of taking any product that includes a stimulant laxative. It is the result of the contractions and influx of water in the intestines.
• Nausea – you may feel nauseous, but only if you overdose on the product.
• Diarrhea – some level of diarrhea is expected. However, if you feel that the diarrhea is getting worse, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
• Weakness – if diarrhea persists and you get dehydrated, you may feel weak.
• Rash – certain people might develop a rash due to the docusate in this product.

In addition to the above, patients have reported the color of their urine turning reddish-brown after taking Senna-S. However, that’s a harmless side effect that subsides as soon as the patient stops taking the medicine.

If you or anyone you know experience any serious effects, seek medical care immediately.

What are the Different Types of Laxatives?

There are over-the-counter laxatives of different kinds, with each offering constipation relief in different ways.

These include:

• Stimulant Laxatives – as discussed earlier, these promote bowel movements by stimulating the intestines and causing contractions. Some examples include castor oil, Sennosides, Bisacodyl, etc.
• Stool Softener – also known as “Emollient laxatives,” these work by increasing the moisture in the blockage, which may have become dry and hard. They are most commonly prescribed to people who can’t put too much strain on their abdomens while passing stool. Examples of stool softeners include docusate (Colace).
• Bulking Laxatives – these laxatives work by increasing the amount of water absorbed by the stool in your intestines. Examples include wheat dextrin, calcium polycarbophil, methylcellulose fiber, etc.
• Lubricant Laxatives – as you can probably tell by the name, they treat constipation by making the stool slippery with a thin layer of substance. Mineral oil is the most common example of a lubricant laxative. However, lubricant laxatives should only be used to treat occasional constipation, and aren’t meant to be used for long-term use.
• Osmotic Laxatives – finally, osmotic laxatives work by drawing water from nearby tissues into your intestines. A common example of osmotic laxatives is polyethylene glycol 3350 (the main ingredient used in MiraLAX).

If you’re not sure which laxative to take, consult a doctor.

What are Some Common Causes of Constipation?

In the US, more than 4 million people suffer from occasional constipation. Not passing more than 3 stools a week, stomach pain, bloating, and feeling fullness even after having a bowel movement, are all classic symptoms of constipation.

But what could be the main reasons for constipation? Knowing the possible culprits can help improve your chances of getting regular bowel movements.

Here are some common causes of constipation:

• A Low-Fiber Diet – not eating enough foods that are rich in fiber can lead to constipation.
• Change in Routine – if you’re travel or experience some other sudden change(s) in routine, you may get constipated.
• Dehydration – not consuming enough fluids can lead to constipation, especially on a low-fiber diet.
• Lack of Movement – spending hours sitting or lying down every day can affect regular bowel movements.
• Side Effect of a Medicine – constipation may also be a result of a medicine that you’re currently taking.

In addition to the above, pregnancy, delaying bowel movements, stress, anxiety, and depression are also some common culprits behind a constipated tummy.

What Else Can I Do to Get Rid of My Constipation?

The ValuMeds Senna-S can help you get rid of your constipation in no time. However, to maximize its effectiveness and ensure that you never get constipated again, here are some lifestyle changes that you should definitely adopt:

• Drink Lots of Fluids – water makes your stool soft and moist, making it easier to pass.
• Eat Fiber-Rich Food – incorporate fruits (figs, berries, etc.), vegetables (broccoli, sweetcorn, potatoes, etc.), oats, nuts, and seeds in your diet.
• Regular Your Bowel Habits – don’t purposely hold in a stool. If you feel like having a bowel movement, find a facility immediately.
• Meditate – your constipation may not stem from a problem in the digestive system – it could be due to a mental reason. Ease yourself from stress and anxiety by meditating and indulging in other mindfulness exercises on a daily basis.
• Exercise Daily – ample movement reduces the time it takes for the food to move to the colon. This, in turn, cuts down the amount of moisture absorbed from the stool into the intestinal walls, making it easier to pass the stool.

Finally, if you’re currently taking a medicine that might be causing constipation, talk to your doctor and request an alternative.