Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Swanson
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 3 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for constipation, bowel cleansing before procedures, hemorrhoids.Based on those ingredients, 752 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Cascara Sagrada, Senna. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
This product contains 3 active ingredients: psyllium husk (a bulk-forming fiber), cascara sagrada (a plant-derived stimulant laxative), and senna (another stimulant laxative). The inactive ingredients are gelatin, magnesium stearate, and silica — common capsule materials and binders.
The senna and cascara work by stimulating your colon's muscles to move stool, while psyllium absorbs water to soften it. It's a combination approach, though the two stimulant laxatives have overlapping actions.
Does it work?
Strong evidence
Senna is likely effective for constipation and possibly effective for bowel preparation. Cascara sagrada, by contrast, has insufficient reliable evidence — we don't have enough data to say whether it actually helps constipation, and it's possibly ineffective for bowel preparation.
The psyllium component (a soluble fiber) is not rated in our data for this specific product formulation.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Senna is generally well tolerated when used short-term in appropriate doses; the most common side effects are abdominal discomfort, cramps, diarrhea, and nausea. Cascara sagrada is also generally well tolerated short-term, though mild cramps are typical.
Long-term use of either carries real risks — including muscle wasting, protein loss in urine, and blood in urine — which is why these stimulant laxatives aren't recommended for daily use without medical guidance. For pregnancy, stimulant laxatives like cascara are generally not recommended and should be avoided.
Senna is rated possibly safe in pregnancy if medically advised, but cascara's pregnancy rating is not on file here — talk with your doctor or pharmacist. During breastfeeding, cascara is possibly unsafe (active compounds may pass into milk), while senna is rated possibly safe.
If you're pregnant or nursing, check with your healthcare provider before using this product.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're on blood thinners like warfarin (moderate risk of increased bleeding), water pills or corticosteroids (moderate risk of dangerously low potassium), digoxin for your heart (moderate risk of toxicity from potassium loss), birth control pills (moderate risk of reduced absorption), or any other stimulant laxatives (moderate risk of severe electrolyte loss). We could not check psyllium husk for drug interactions because no data is on file for it.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product is designed for short-term constipation relief and may work best under occasional use. If you take blood thinners, diuretics, corticosteroids, digoxin, birth control pills, or other stimulant laxatives, you'll want to check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting — the interaction risks are real.
Don't use this long-term without medical advice. Talk it over with your own doctor or pharmacist to see if it fits your situation.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 25, 2024.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex, straight from the product label.
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Psyllium Husk | 100 mg | -- |
| Cascara Sagrada | 100 mg | -- |
| Senna | 350 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate, Silica
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation
Total wellness for mind, body & home Unsurpassed purity & potency 100% Money back guaranteed
Digestive health Triple-action support
Brand IP Statement(s)
Swanson Science-Backed Quality Since 1969
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take one capsule one to three times per day with a full glass of water.
Precautions
Warning: For adults only. Keep out of reach of children.
This product contains senna and cascara.
Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools or abdominal pain as this product may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Not recommended for extended use. Do not use if seal is broken.
Consult your healthcare provider if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson
These are the 3 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container90 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Psyllium Husk
Cascara Sagrada
Interacts with747 drugs
Cascara sagrada is a stimulant laxative made from the aged bark of a Pacific Northwest tree, used mainly for short-term relief of constipation. Becaus...
Cascara Sagrada monograph & interactionsSenna
Interacts with140 drugs
Senna is a plant-based stimulant laxative that is widely used and generally effective for short-term relief of constipation. It is best used occasiona...
Senna monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Magnesium Stearate, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson interacts with medications through its senna and cascara sagrada content.
The most serious concern is a moderate-severity risk: both ingredients can cause diarrhea, which increases the effects of warfarin (a blood thinner), raising bleeding risk. Altogether, these interactions span 751 individual medications.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Cascara sagrada and senna both raise the risk of low potassium (hypokalemia) when combined with water pills (diuretics) or corticosteroids — a moderate-severity effect that can lead to muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat. Cascara sagrada also theoretically increases digoxin toxicity through potassium loss, and senna can interfere with how your body absorbs birth control pills (estrogens).
Both ingredients may have additive effects if you're already taking other stimulant laxatives, compounding fluid and electrolyte losses.
Cascara sagrada may also slightly reduce how your liver processes certain medications (CYP3A4 substrates), though the effect is minor. We could not check psyllium husk for interactions because no monograph data is on file for it.
Run your exact medications through the search tool on this page before starting.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex interact with 752 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 3 ingredients in Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Cascara Sagrada Senna
Docusate Calcium, PhenolphthaleinDoxidan (Canadian)
How Docusate Calcium, Phenolphthalein interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cascara SagradaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might have additive adverse effects when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Docusate Calcium, Phenolphthalein interactionSennaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Senna + Docusate Calcium, Phenolphthalein interactionDocusate Sodium, PhenolphthaleinCorrectol, Modane Plus
How Docusate Sodium, Phenolphthalein interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Senna + Docusate Sodium, Phenolphthalein interactionCascara SagradaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might have additive adverse effects when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Docusate Sodium, Phenolphthalein interactionDocusate Sodium, Sennosides (otc Drug)Senokot-S
How Docusate Sodium, Sennosides (otc Drug) interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cascara SagradaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might have additive adverse effects when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Docusate Sodium, Sennosides (otc Drug) interactionSennaStimulant Laxatives Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.
Read the full Senna + Docusate Sodium, Sennosides (otc Drug) interactionDrospirenone, EstetrolNextstellis
How Drospirenone, Estetrol interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Drospirenone, Estetrol interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Drospirenone, Estetrol interactionDrospirenone, Ethinyl EstradiolAngeliq, Gianvi, Yasmin
How Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionEnalapril Maleate, HydrochlorothiazideVaseretic
How Enalapril Maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaDiuretic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Read the full Senna + Enalapril Maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionCascara SagradaDiuretic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Enalapril Maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide interactionEsterified EstrogensEstratab, Menest
How Esterified Estrogens interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Esterified Estrogens interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Esterified Estrogens interactionEsterified Estrogens, MethyltestosteroneEstratest
How Esterified Estrogens, Methyltestosterone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Esterified Estrogens, Methyltestosterone interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Esterified Estrogens, Methyltestosterone interactionEstradiolDivigel, Elestrin, Estrace, Estraderm, Estring, Evamist +6 more
How Estradiol interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estradiol interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Estradiol interactionEstradiol, MedroxyprogesteroneDivitren
How Estradiol, Medroxyprogesterone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estradiol, Medroxyprogesterone interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Estradiol, Medroxyprogesterone interactionEstradiol, Norethindrone AcetateActivella
How Estradiol, Norethindrone Acetate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estradiol, Norethindrone Acetate interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Estradiol, Norethindrone Acetate interactionEstradiol, NorgestimateOrtho-Prefest
How Estradiol, Norgestimate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estradiol, Norgestimate interactionEstradiol, ProgesteroneBijuvanda
How Estradiol, Progesterone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estradiol, Progesterone interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Estradiol, Progesterone interactionEstrogenEstrogen
How Estrogen interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estrogen interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Estrogen interactionEstroneOrtho-Est
How Estrone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estrone interactionEstropipateOgen, Ortho EST
How Estropipate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Estropipate interactionEthacrynic AcidEdecrin
How Ethacrynic Acid interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaDiuretic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Read the full Senna + Ethacrynic Acid interactionCascara SagradaDiuretic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethacrynic Acid interactionEthiny Estradiol, LevonorgestrelLogynon, Microgynon 30 ED
How Ethiny Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethiny Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethiny Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interactionEthinyl EstradiolEstinyl
How Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol interactionEthinyl Estradiol, DesogestrelApri, Cesia, Cyclessa, Gedarel, Kariva, Linessa +4 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Desogestrel interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Desogestrel interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Desogestrel interactionEthinyl Estradiol, DrospirenoneYaz
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Drospirenone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Drospirenone interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Drospirenone interactionEthinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol DiacetateDemulen 1/35, Demulen 1/50, Demulen Compack, Kelnor 1/35, Zovia, Zovia 1/35 +1 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol Diacetate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol Diacetate interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Ethynodiol Diacetate interactionEthinyl Estradiol, LevonorgestrelAlesse, Alesse 21, Alesse 28, Aviane, Enpresse, Jolessa +18 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel interactionEthinyl Estradiol, NorethindroneAranelle, Brevicon, Brevicon .5/35 21 day, Brevicon .5/35 28 day, Brevicon 1/35 21 day, Brevicon 1/35 28 day +50 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone interactionEthinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous FumarateEstrostep Fe, Femcon FE, Junel Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe, Loestrin Fe 1.5/30, Loestrin Fe 1/20 +3 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous Fumarate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous Fumarate interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norethindrone, Ferrous Fumarate interactionEthinyl Estradiol, NorgestimateCilest, Mononessa, Ortho Tri-Cyclen 28, Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, Ortho Tri-Cylcen, Ortho-Cyclen +5 more
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestimate interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestimate interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestimate interactionEthinyl Estradiol, NorgestrelCryselle, Lo/Ovral, Low-Ogestrel, Ogestrel 0.5/50, Ovral
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestrel interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestrel interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Norgestrel interactionEthinyl Estradiol, LevonogestrelLybrel
How Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonogestrel interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonogestrel interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonogestrel interactionEtonogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolNuvaRing
How Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SennaEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Read the full Senna + Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionCascara SagradaCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionFludrocortisoneFlorinef Acetate
How Fludrocortisone interacts with Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Cascara SagradaCorticosteroids Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with corticosteroids.
Read the full Cascara Sagrada + Fludrocortisone interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Cascara Sagrada
Corticosteroids
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with corticosteroids.
Cascara sagrada has stimulant laxative effects, and long-term use has been associated with hypokalemia.
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might cause hypokalemia, potentially increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity.
Cascara sagrada has stimulant laxative effects, and long-term use has been associated with hypokalemia.
Diuretic Drugs
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Cascara sagrada has stimulant laxative effects, and long-term use has been associated with hypokalemia.
Stimulant Laxatives
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might have additive adverse effects when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Cascara sagrada has stimulant laxative effects and might compound fluid and electrolyte losses when taken with stimulant laxatives.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin.
Cascara sagrada has stimulant laxative effects. In some people, cascara sagrada can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, cascara sagrada might decrease the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that cascara sagrada can induce CYP3A4 enzymes, albeit to a much lower degree than rifampin, a known CYP3A4 inducer.
Senna
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with digoxin.
Overuse/abuse of senna increases the risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, due to potassium depletion.
Diuretic Drugs
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.
Overuse of senna might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss and increase the risk for hypokalemia.
Estrogens
Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.
Some preliminary clinical evidence suggests that senna reduces the absorption of estradiol and decreases serum concentrations of estrone and estrone sulfate by decreasing intestinal transit time.
Stimulant Laxatives
Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.
Senna is a stimulant laxative; concomitant use with other stimulant laxatives might compound fluid and electrolyte loss.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, excessive use of senna might increase the effects of warfarin.
Senna has stimulant laxative effects and can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. In one case report, excessive use of senna for 3 weeks resulted in diarrhea, bloody stools, and an elevated INR of 11.9.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex, from the product label.
Swanson
See all Swanson products- Name
- Swanson Health Products
- City
- Fargo
- State
- ND
- ZipCode
- 58104
- Phone Number
- 1-800-437-4148
- Web Address
- swanson.com
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex by Swanson: Common Questions
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Cascara Sagrada
Interacts with 747 drugsCascara sagrada is a stimulant laxative made from the aged bark of a Pacific Northwest tree, used mainly for short-term relief of constipation. Because it can cause cramping, dehydration, an...
Read the full Cascara Sagrada monograph → Herb & supplement monographSenna
Interacts with 140 drugsSenna is a plant-based stimulant laxative that is widely used and generally effective for short-term relief of constipation. It is best used occasionally and for only a few days at a time, s...
Read the full Senna monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Senna, Cascara & Psyllium Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 51 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Cascara Sagrada 9 references
- Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Trans. S. Klein. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
- Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
- Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
- Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I, et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000;46:651-5. PubMed
- Nadir A, Reddy D, Van Thiel DH. Cascara-sagrada induced intrahepatic cholestasis causing portal hypertension: case report and review of herbal hepatotoxicity. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:3634-7. PubMed
- Nakasone ES, Tokeshi J. A serendipitous find: a case of cholangiocarcinoma identified incidentally after acute liver injury due to cascara sagrada ingestion. Hawaii J Med Public Health 2015;74(6):200-2.
- Cirillo C, Capasso R. Constipation and botanical medicines: an overview. Phytother Res 2015;29(10):1488-93. PubMed
- Mazzari ALDA, Lacerda MG, Milton FA, et al. In vitro effects of European and Latin-American medicinal plants in CYP3A4 gene expression, glutathione levels, and P-glycoprotein activity. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:826395. PubMed
Senna 42 references
- McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.
- Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
- American Academy of Pediatrics. The transfer of drugs and other chemicals into human milk. Pediatrics 2001;108:776-89. PubMed
- Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I, et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000;46:651-5. PubMed
- Seybold U, Landauer N, Hillebrand S, Goebel FD. Senna-induced hepatitis in a poor metabolizer. Ann Intern Med 2004;141:650-1. PubMed
- Vanderperren B, Rizzo M, Angenot L, et al. Acute liver failure with renal impairment related to the abuse of senna anthraquinone glycosides. Ann Pharmacother 2005;39:1353-7. PubMed
- Xing JH, Soffer EE. Adverse effects of laxatives. Dis Colon Rectum 2001;44:1201-9. PubMed
- Prior J, White I. Tetany and clubbing in patient who ingested large quantities of senna. Lancet 1978;2:947. PubMed
- Langmead L, Rampton DS. Review article: herbal treatment in gastrointestinal and liver disease--benefits and dangers. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2001;15:1239-52. PubMed
- Joo JS, Ehrenpreis ED, Gonzalez L, et al. Alterations in colonic anatomy induced by chronic stimulant laxatives: the cathartic colon revisited. J Clin Gastroenterol 1998;26:283-6. PubMed
- Godding EW. Laxatives and the special role of senna. Pharmacology 1988;36:230-6. PubMed
- van Os FH. Anthraquinone derivatives in vegetable laxatives. Pharmacology 1976;14:7-17. PubMed
- Sondheimer JM, Gervaise EP. Lubricant versus laxative in the treatment of chronic functional constipation of children: a comparative study. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 1982;1:223-6. DOI
- Perkin JM. Constipation in childhood: a controlled comparison between lactulose and standardized senna. Curr Med Res Opin 1977;4:540-3. PubMed
- Shelton MG. Standardized senna in the management of constipation in the puerperium: A clinical trial. S Afr Med J 1980;57:78-80.
- [No authors listed] Senna in the puerperium. Pharmacology 1992;44:23-5. PubMed
- Passmore AP, Davies KW, Flanagan PG, et al. A comparison of Agiolax and lactulose in elderly patients with chronic constipation. Pharmacology 1993;47:249-52. PubMed
- Passmore AP, Wilson-Davies K, Stoker C, Scott ME. Chronic constipation in long stay elderly patients: a comparison of lactulose and a senna-fibre combination. BMJ 1993;307:769-71. PubMed
- MacLennan WJ, Pooler AFWM. A comparison of sodium picosulphate ("Laxoberal") with standardised senna ("Senokot") in geriatric patients. Curr Med Res Opin. 1974;2:641-7. PubMed
- Kittisupamongkol W, Nilaratanakul V, Kulwichit W. Near-fatal bleeding, senna, and the opposite of lettuce. Lancet 2008;371:784. PubMed
- Prather CM. Pregnancy-related constipation. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2004;6:402-4. PubMed
- Werthmann WM Jr, Krees SV. Quantitative excretion of Senokot in human breast milk. Med Ann Dist Columbia 1973;42:4-5.
- Hagemann TM. Gastrointestinal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact 1998;14:259-62. PubMed
- Faber P, Strenge-Hesse A. Senna-containing laxatives: excretion in the breast milk? Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 1989;49:958-62.
- Faber P, Strenge-Hesse A. Relevance of rhein excretion into breast milk. Pharmacology 1988;36 Suppl 1:212-20. PubMed
- Duncan AS. Standardized senna as a laxative in the puerperium; a clinical assessment. Br Med J 1957;1:439-41. PubMed
- Stickel, F. and Schuppan, D. Herbal medicine in the treatment of liver diseases. Dig.Liver Dis. 2007;39(4):293-304. PubMed
- BALDWIN, W. F. CLINICAL STUDY OF SENNA ADMINISTRATION TO NURSING MOTHERS: ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS ON INFANT BOWEL HABITS. Can.Med Assoc.J 9-14-1963;89:566-568. DOI
- Sonmez, A., Yilmaz, M. I., Mas, R., Ozcan, A., Celasun, B., Dogru, T., Taslipinar, A., and Kocar, I. H. Subacute cholestatic hepatitis likely related to the use of senna for chronic constipation. Acta Gastroenterol.Belg. 2005;68(3):385-387.
- Beuers, U., Spengler, U., and Pape, G. R. Hepatitis after chronic abuse of senna. Lancet 2-9-1991;337(8737):372-373. PubMed
- Lim, A. K., Hooke, D. H., and Kerr, P. G. Anorexia nervosa and senna misuse: nephrocalcinosis, digital clubbing and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy. Med J Aust. 1-21-2008;188(2):121-122. PubMed
- McLaughlin, A. F. Anorexia nervosa and senna misuse: nephrocalcinosis, digital clubbing and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy. Med J Aust. 9-15-2008;189(6):348. PubMed
- Soyuncu, S., Cete, Y., and Nokay, A. E. Portal vein thrombosis related to Cassia angustifolia. Clin.Toxicol.(Phila) 2008;46(8):774-777.
- Levine, D., Goode, A. W., and Wingate, D. L. Purgative abuse associated with reversible cachexia, hypogammaglobulinaemia, and finger clubbing. Lancet 4-25-1981;1(8226):919-920. PubMed
- Malmquist, J., Ericsson, B., Hulten-Nosslin, M. B., Jeppsson, J. O., and Ljungberg, O. Finger clubbing and aspartylglucosamine excretion in a laxative-abusing patient. Postgrad.Med J 1980;56(662):862-864. PubMed
- Lewis, S. J., Heaton, K. W., Oakey, R. E., and McGarrigle, H. H. Lower serum oestrogen concentrations associated with faster intestinal transit. Br.J Cancer 1997;76(3):395-400. PubMed
- Lewis, S. J., Oakey, R. E., and Heaton, K. W. Intestinal absorption of oestrogen: the effect of altering transit-time. Eur.J Gastroenterol.Hepatol. 1998;10(1):33-39. PubMed
- Vilanova-Sanchez A, Gasior AC, Toocheck N, et al. Are Senna based laxatives safe when used as long term treatment for constipation in children? J Pediatr Surg 2018;53(4):722-7. PubMed
- Cogley K, Echevarria A, Correa C, De la Torre-Mondragón L. Contact Burn with Blister Formation in Children Treated with Sennosides. Pediatr Dermatol 2017;34(2):e85-e88. PubMed
- Coskun Y, Yuksel I. Polyethylene glycol versus split high-dose senna for bowel preparation: A comparative prospective randomized study. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020;35(11):1923-1929.
- Haoudar A, Chekhlabi N, El Kettani C, Dini N. Acute Hepatitis and Pancytopenia in a Child With Chronic Abuse of Senna. Cureus 2021;13(1):e12436. PubMed
- Irazábal B, Sánchez de Vicente J, Galán C, et al. Anaphylaxis Due to Senna (Cassia angustifolia). J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2021;31(1):71-73. PubMed
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC