For Jonathan:


In Berkowitz RL and al. Handbook for Prescribing Medications During
Pregnancy. Second Edition, Little Brown Pub., Senna is said to be safe in
pregnancy, but despite their safety, attetion to proper diet and exercise is
preferable to dependance on these agents. It says that dosage is a 2 g dose
with results in 6 hours. As for side effects, it says that they include
intestinal melanosis with prolonged use.

In another reference "Self Medication - A guide for Haelth Professionnals"
by the Canadian Pharm. association, it says that the effect of these agents
(they call them contact and cathartic laxatives) relates to their ability to
inhibit intestinal water absorption and increase permeability of the
intestinal mucosa. It also says that they produce severe abdominal cramps,
increase mucus secretion and in some individuals to an excessive evacuation
of fluids.

Hope this helps!


e
Dany Gauthier IBCLC
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Montreal, Canada
Tel: 514-923-3792
Fax:514-923-3802