Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is senna. You may also hear it called by brand names, like 'Senokot'. 

It is important to take it as directed. You should take this medicine by mouth. If you are taking the liquid form of senna, you should measure the dose with a measuring spoon or oral syringe, not a household spoon. 

Senna is a laxative. It is commonly used to treat constipation, or to clean out the intestines before an exam such as a colonoscopy. You can expect a bowel movement in about 6 to 12 hours after a dose. It is common to take it at bedtime. 

Senna can cause mild side effects like stomach upset or diarrhea. These are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects worry you, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

Senna is available without a prescription. You should talk to a doctor before using it if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts over 2 weeks. You should stop using it and talk to a doctor if you have rectal bleeding or fail to have a bowel movement after taking dose. 

To avoid drug interactions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking senna with other medicines. 

For best results with senna, follow your doctor's advice about eating fiber, drinking fluids and exercising to help you stay regular.