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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › COUGH AND COLD PREPARATIONS › EXPECTORANTS, EXCL. COMBINATIONS WITH COUGH SUPPRESSANTS › Expectorants
senega
R05CA06
Forms & Strengths
- Oral syrup 2% (≈10 mg senega root extract/mL)
- Tincture 5% (≈50 mg/mL)
- Lozenges 0.5% (5 mg per lozenge)
Adult Dosing
- Syrup: 10–30 drops (≈0.5–1.5 mL) 3–4 times daily
- Tincture: 5–10 drops 3–4 times daily, diluted in water
- Lozenges: 1–2 lozenges every 4 h as needed
Pediatric Dosing
- Ages 2–5 y: 5–10 drops syrup 3 times daily
- Ages 6–12 y: 10–15 drops syrup 3–4 times daily
- >12 y: adult dose
- Do not use in infants <2 y
Indications
- Dry or productive cough
- Bronchial congestion
- Adjunct in mild asthma for bronchodilation
- Upper respiratory tract irritation
Mechanism of Action
- Irritant saponins stimulate vagal afferents → bronchial smooth‑muscle relaxation
- Increases serous bronchial secretion, facilitating expectoration
- Mucosal irritation enhances cough reflex sensitivity
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to senega or related Polygala species
- Acute bronchospasm without bronchodilator cover
- Severe peptic ulcer disease (irritant effect)
- Infants <2 y
Adverse Reactions
- Nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal upset
- Transient bitter taste, oral irritation
- Allergic dermatitis or urticaria
- Rare bronchospasm or paradoxical cough
Drug Interactions
- Additive bronchodilatory effect with β2‑agonists – monitor for tachycardia
- May increase secretions when combined with other expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin)
- Potential reduced efficacy of anticholinergic cough suppressants
- Caution with MAO inhibitors – theoretical risk of hypertensive reaction from catecholamine release
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use