<Tr> <Th_colspan="2"> (what is this?) (verify) </Th> </Tr> <P> Senna glycoside, also known as sennoside or senna, is a medication used to treat constipation and empty the large intestine before surgery . The medication is taken by mouth or via the rectum . It typically begins working in minutes when given by rectum and within twelve hours when given by mouth . It is a weaker laxative than bisacodyl or castor oil . </P> <P> Common side effects of senna glycoside include abdominal cramps . It is not recommended for long - term use, as it may result in poor bowel function or electrolyte problems . While no harms have been found for use while breastfeeding, such use is not typically recommended . It is not typically recommended in children . Senna may change urine to a somewhat reddish color . Senna derivatives are a type of stimulant laxative and are of the anthraquinone type . While its mechanism of action is not entirely clear, senna is thought to act by increasing fluid secretion within and contraction of the large intestine . </P> <P> Senna is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system . It is available as a generic medication and is relatively cheap . The wholesale cost in the developing world is about 0.01 USD per pill . Sennosides come from the group of plants Senna . In plant form, it has been used at least since the 700s CE . </P>

What is the mechanism of action of senna