Introduction
In the life of a modern woman, situations often arise when taking sorbent medications is urgently needed.
- Problems of the intestinal tract caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, as well as poor quality nutrition.
- Rashes of an allergic nature, when not only external help is needed in the form of ointments or talkers, but also the fight against allergens from the inside.
- Problems in children, such as vomiting, diarrhea, food or drug poisoning, rotavirus infections, and so on.
Sorbents help perfectly in these situations. But their choice is so large, and I would like the product to be reliable, high-quality, effective and not put a big dent in the wallet.
This article presents two sorbent medications that meet all the above requirements. How do they work and what is their effectiveness? Are these sorbents suitable for children? Lactofiltrum and Enterosgel, which is better for allergies or intestinal diseases? What are the possible barriers to use, and what can replace medications? More on all this below.
Pharmacological properties
Lactum Filtrum (trade name “Lactofiltrum”) was invented a long time ago, back during the Second World War. Back then it was used by German soldiers to treat colds, constipation or food poisoning. The medicine did not yet have such a variety of forms - people used it in the form of a brown bulk substance.
Today, when pharmacology is constantly developing, the drug is produced in the form of tablets, although its analogues can be found in the form of chewing lozenges, and in the form of a paste or gel.
The main task of this drug is to combat dysbiosis, which destroys the bacterial environment of the intestines and introduces an imbalance into it. In addition, it has a stimulating effect on the immune system, creates a nutrient environment in the large intestine for the development of beneficial microflora, improving the body's metabolic processes.
Thus, you can often find other drugs from the enterosorbent series on sale. These are drugs such as:
- Filtrum STI.
- Enterosgel.
At first glance, they should not differ from each other, but not everything is so simple.
Description of drugs: action, effectiveness
Enterosgel has been known on the market for a long time. The spectrum of its action is extremely wide: the sorbent is prescribed by many specialists, from pediatrics to gynecology and surgery. Enterosgel acts gently but effectively. The active element of the drug is polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate. This element works like a sponge: it absorbs toxins and allergens that lead to rashes and quickly removes them from the body. Polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate itself is not absorbed into the blood or the intestinal tract. All elements necessary for the body, namely minerals, beneficial bacteria and vitamins, remain and are not excreted. Enterosgel also performs the following functions:
- relieving inflammation both from the skin and from the intestinal tract;
- protection of the intestinal tract organs: it envelops the organs like a film, protecting them from external negative influences;
- cessation of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- restoration of normal levels of certain substances in the body, including urea, bilirubin, cholesterol, lipids;
- quick disposal of toxins that have led to various types of poisoning;
- resumption of normal functioning of the intestinal tract.
The active elements in the Lactofiltrum sorbent are lactulose and lignin that have undergone hydrolysis. Lignin firmly binds all toxic and allergic substances to each other and quickly removes them from the body. The main function of lactulose is to populate the intestinal flora with beneficial bacteria and stimulate their number. Thus, Lactofiltrum sorbent not only fights the problem, but also helps the intestinal flora recover faster and normalize its activity.
Antibacterial drugs for diarrhea
Even with an intestinal infection, they are not the basis of treatment, so it is better to have a doctor recommend them.
Be especially careful with children: do not take responsibility, do not prescribe treatment for them: young children develop toxicosis with exicosis (dehydration) very quickly. Advise to consult a doctor immediately.
Antibacterial drugs are used for infectious diarrhea.
Its signs are fever, nausea, vomiting, loose stools; there may be mucus, pus, and blood in the stool.
Nifuroxazide (trade names: Ersefuril, Enterofuril, Stopdiar) - inhibits biochemical processes in the microbial cell, reduces the production of toxins by microbes.
Available in the form of capsules of 100, 200 mg and suspension.
Active against salmonella, dysentery bacilli, Vibrio cholerae, staphylococcus, E. coli, clostridia, etc.
Weakly active against Klebsiella, Proteus.
It is practically not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, so it acts directly at the crime scene.
Does not affect saprophytic flora, does not cause intestinal dysbiosis.
Resistance to it does not develop.
Contraindicated for pregnant women. A short course is allowed for breastfeeding women (by a doctor!).
The course of treatment is 7 days.
Side effects include nausea, vomiting, and allergies.
Children are allowed from 1-2 months (Enterofuril from 1 month, Stopdiar - from 2 months). For children under 2-3 years of age, the preferred form for oral administration is a suspension.
Rifaximin. Trade name Alpha Normix.
A very broad-spectrum antibiotic (more than nifuroxazide). It has a bactericidal effect, that is, it causes the death of microbes. It is not absorbed into the blood, it works exclusively in the intestines.
Indications: infectious diarrhea; the instructions also indicate traveler's diarrhea, but again we are talking about diarrhea of infectious origin.
Contraindicated for intestinal ulcers: this means it is not prescribed if there is blood in the stool.
Children - from 12 years old.
Lactofiltrum or Enterosgel for children
For use by children, there are certain differences between Lactofiltrum and Enterosgel.
Lactofiltrum is available exclusively in tablet form, which is not very convenient for very young patients who do not yet know how to swallow large tablets. You can crush the required amount of tablet and dilute it with water, but the resulting structure will be heterogeneous, which children may not like.
However, Lactofiltrum is approved for use in children over one year of age.
The manufacturers of Enterosgel took care of little patients and produced a sweetened paste that is pleasant to swallow. In addition, the variations of the sorbent themselves, namely paste and gel, have a uniform texture. Manufacturers allow the use of the sorbent both in its pure form, washed down with water, and diluting it in juice or compote, so that the baby has no problems drinking the required dosage.
Enterosgel is approved for use by babies from the first days of life. The required amount should be diluted in breast milk or formula and given before each feeding.
Reception features
The nuances of use often play a major role in the choice.
If you decide to be treated with Lactofiltrum:
- Tablets and lozenges are crushed or chewed thoroughly.
- Drink with water.
- The powder is stirred into the liquid.
Enterosgel is used in crumbly form or a suspension is prepared.
You can argue about the benefits of using it - some people like the jelly-like substance, others prefer crushing tablets.
In case of poisoning, before using both medications, it is recommended to cleanse the stomach to enhance effectiveness.
Release forms and composition
Lactofiltrum has a variation only of tablets. Its active elements include lactulose and hydrolytic lignin. Additional elements include the following substances: croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and cellulose microcrystals.
Variations in the release of Enterosgel sorbent are more diverse. In pharmacies you can find Enterosgel in variations of simple or sweetened paste and gel.
Enterosgel gel contains polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate in the full volume of the tube without any additional elements. Enterosgel paste contains two-thirds of the active substance polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate and one-third of purified water. The sweetened paste, in addition to the active substance and water, also contains sweeteners E952, E954.
Indications for use
The spectrum of action of Laktofiltrum and Enterosgel sorbents is quite extensive.
Specialists can prescribe the medication Enterosgel for:
- poisoning of any nature;
- skin rashes, as well as allergic diseases;
- attacks of vomiting and nausea;
- diarrhea of unknown origin;
- kidney and liver diseases;
- disturbances in the normal functioning of the intestinal tract;
- toxicosis in women in a special situation;
- diseases of an oncological nature.
Lactofiltrum is most often prescribed for:
- allergic diseases;
- liver ailments;
- disorders of the intestinal tract (especially after a course of antibiotics);
- treatment of irritable bowel syndrome;
- therapy for bacterial vaginosis.
Cautions
Both remedies are prohibited for the following problems:
- gastrointestinal bleeding;
- atony and intestinal obstruction;
- ulcerative formations of the digestive tract.
But Lactofiltrum is contraindicated for chronic diarrhea, and Enterosgel for prolonged constipation.
The following side effects occur:
- disturbances of peristalsis;
- nausea and vomiting;
- flatulence.
In addition, taking Lactofiltrum is associated with allergy risks.
Perhaps the opinions of people who have used the drugs will help you make your choice:
- Larisa, 45 years old, Penza: Due to constant intestinal problems, the doctor prescribed Enterosgel. But I couldn't accept it. The nasty taste and feeling of a mucous lump in the throat also caused vomiting. Therefore, I switched to Lactofiltrum.
- Ivan, 23 years old, Samara: I have had allergies since childhood. Nothing helped before; hives appeared periodically. Mom bought Lactofiltrum and made me drink it. Works well, almost no rash.
- Natalya, 39 years old, Moscow: My daughter was prescribed Enterosgel due to constant diarrhea. I pray for this drug. The condition has improved.
Despite the laudatory reviews, you should not treat yourself. It is necessary to take into account the nuances of therapy.
Lactofiltrum or Enterosgel - which is better for the intestines
Lactofiltrum and Enterosgel are often prescribed by specialists for dysbiosis, diarrhea, vomiting, poisoning and other intestinal ailments. But it is important to understand that the principles of operation of these sorbents are different. So, Lactofiltrum or Enterosgel, which is better for the intestines?
Enterosgel leaves all the useful elements in the body, it correctly filters all substances and eliminates only those that cause discomfort in the abdominal area.
Lactofiltrum may provoke the growth of beneficial bacteria to normalize the intestinal flora, but it acts indiscriminately. This means that along with useful substances, necessary elements can also be eliminated. That is why it is important to take the sorbent correctly under the supervision of a doctor.
Patient reviews of lactofiltrum and enterosgel
Lyudmila, 32 years old, Murmansk.
I heard good reviews about Laktofiltrum from friends. I decided to try the product myself. I have been suffering from flatulence and constipation for a long time. Therefore, I purchased 2 packages of medicine for a full course of therapy.
7-10 days after starting to use the drug I felt the first signs of improvement. I began to worry less about bloating.
Bowel movements were easier, a feeling of lightness appeared, and my mood improved.
I was pleasantly surprised by the changes in my skin condition. The small rash present on the face has gone away. The skin began to look healthier.
Regina, 48 years old, Yaroslavl.
I have been using Lactofiltrum for several years when undergoing antibiotic treatment. Such drugs often disrupt the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
The drug has high sorbing properties. It ensures the removal from the body of not only harmful substances, but also the remnants of the medications used for therapy. Therefore, I always start taking Lactofiltrum only after completing a course of antibiotic treatment.
The drug contains 2 active ingredients. One of them cleanses the body, the other helps beneficial bacteria multiply.
Sofia, 34 years old, Kirov.
Enterosgel is an indispensable remedy for those who have a weak stomach or intestines. At first, the tasteless and odorless paste-like medicine made me vomit, but then I got used to it.
The drug is effective for digestive disorders and poisoning. If I go to the sea, on a business trip or just a long trip, I always take it with me.
The medicine helps after feasts and drinking alcohol. Quickly eliminates all symptoms of intoxication.
Lactofiltrum or Enterosgel - which is better for allergies
Both medications are equally effective in treating allergies. So answering the question “Lactofiltrum or Enterosgel, which is better for allergies” is not easy. Lactofiltrum and Enterosgel quickly and efficiently eliminate all toxins and allergens that led to rashes, normalize intestinal function, which means that after completion of therapy there is every chance of achieving clean skin.
It is only important to note that Enterosgel can give a faster visible effect for this problem. The sorbent relieves itching and redness, since the active element itself in the composition of the medication is aimed at relieving inflammation.
How do they work and what do they help with?
Any poisoning involves the accumulation of toxic substances.
Bacteria and viruses produce a lot of endo- and exotoxins, which manifests itself in the characteristic symptoms of the disease: fever, headache, weakness, impaired consciousness.
Poisons, salts of heavy metals, drug overdose, allergies, ethanol have an adverse effect on the nervous system, liver, intestines and kidneys.
Pathologies of the liver and kidneys, accompanied by the accumulation of bilirubin and nitrogen metabolism products, also require the intake of intestinal adsorbents.
Tablets or gel have the following effects:
- form complex compounds with toxins;
- chelate foreign substances;
- protect intestinal cells from the destructive effects of bacteria and viruses;
- structure the intestinal contents, modify them, rendering them unsuitable for the propagation of pathogenic flora;
- form aggregates with bacteria and viruses;
- absorb toxic substances formed during the digestion of food (indole, skatole, etc.).
Enterosgel or Filtrum are not absorbed into the systemic circulation and are excreted unchanged from the intestines naturally.
Possible side effects, contraindications
These sorbents have a minimum number of obstacles to use. In particular these are:
- personal intolerance to substances contained in medications;
- intestinal diseases in the acute stage, bleeding, intestinal obstruction.
Enterosgel rarely gives unpleasant effects after use. The only possible thing is an allergy to the active substance of the sorbent.
Lactofiltrum can cause allergic rashes, as well as abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea.
Allergy to gel polish: symptoms, treatment and prevention
Composition of gel polish
Have you been struggling with ALLERGY for many years without success?
Head of the Institute: “You will be amazed at how easy it is to cure allergies just by taking it every day...
Read more "
The innovative nail coating consists of two main components - a gel that strengthens the nail plate, and a coloring agent - varnish. For the first time, such products appeared on the market thanks to the company Creative Nail Design, which is better known by the abbreviation CND. The first gel polish was released under the Shellac brand, since then this name has become a household name, and many women call similar products from different companies shellac.
Regardless of the manufacturer, any gel polish has many advantages compared to conventional varnishes:
- dries quickly;
- is highly decorative;
- provides durable coverage up to 3 weeks from the moment of application;
- strengthens the nail plate, protecting against mechanical damage and the effects of aggressive agents.
All these properties are due to the unique composition, which includes:
- film former – forms a dense coating on the surface of the nail that is elastic, durable and resistant to external factors;
- photoinitiator – under the influence of ultraviolet rays provides additional strength to the film former;
- coloring pigment – gives a specific color to the nail plate;
- thinners, preservatives, fillers - provide viscosity to the cosmetic product, and shine and plasticity to the nail coating.
The listed components consist of chemicals, including:
- phosphoric acid;
- toluene;
- phenyl ketone;
- butyl acetate;
- nitrocellulose;
- rosin;
- formaldehyde.
Each substance in itself can cause allergies, but the most allergenic is methacrylate. Products containing it are prohibited for sale in the USA and some European countries. It is believed that methacrylate causes inflammation of the tissue near the nail plate and its detachment. Doctors are convinced that nail extensions will sooner or later cause an allergic reaction in the body.
An allergy to gel polish can be triggered by any of the chemical components, and a combination of two or more allergens will only worsen the course of the disease. Most often, symptoms appear after using cheap Chinese products, the composition of which is not tested or certified. Although you can also suffer from branded gel polishes, which contain potentially dangerous components. Moreover, even a hypoallergenic series of varnishes is not able to protect against unpleasant manifestations of intolerance to chemicals.
The most allergenic are Chinese-made products. According to reviews from affected clients, allergy symptoms arose from gel polishes Bluesky, Cristina, Canni, Civi. Although unpleasant symptoms appeared when using American Masura gel polishes and domestic Formula Profi.
After a salon manicure, an allergy may occur not only to the gel polish itself, but also to other components without which the beauty procedure is impossible: a UV nail lamp, a cuticle remover, a degreaser and a liquid for removing the gel polish itself.
Allergy symptoms and its types
When it comes to allergies to gel polish, there are two types - contact and respiratory.
Contact allergies, as the name suggests, occur after direct contact with an allergen that gets on the skin of the fingers. Characteristic symptoms of the disease are:
- redness of the skin;
- swelling of the cuticle and fingertips;
- the presence of a red rash that can spread from the fingers to the palms;
- blisters that burst under mechanical stress;
- severe itching and burning, when fingers and palms itch unbearably;
- increased dryness and flaking of the skin;
- In severe allergies, nails may peel off and come off.
The listed symptoms not only cause discomfort and spoil the appearance of women’s hands. They reduce productivity and worsen quality of life. If you let the disease take its course and continue to use an allergenic product for manicure, skin manifestations over time can be detected not only on the hands, but also on the neck, chest, back, and thighs.
A respiratory type of allergy to gel polish is caused by chemical vapors that are part of the manicure product. Symptoms can occur both in the master himself and in his client. Clear signs of a respiratory allergy to harmful fumes are:
- increased lacrimation and sneezing;
- redness, itching and burning of the eyes;
- swelling of the upper and lower eyelids;
- swelling of the lips or tongue;
- cough or sore throat;
- itching and burning in the nasal cavity, a feeling of congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose;
- copious flow of clear mucus from the nose.
Symptoms of respiratory allergies are more dangerous to health, as they are systemic in nature. They can progress and cause Quincke's edema, which threatens the life of the master or client.
An allergy to gel polish may not appear immediately, but several weeks, months and even years after a woman starts using this cosmetic product for manicure. Toxic substances gradually accumulate in the body, and after a while the disease can manifest itself in all its glory.
Treatment methods
Treatment of allergies to gel polish includes a whole range of procedures, but you need to start with removing the nail covering. No matter how much you would like to prolong admiring your well-groomed hands, you should remove the manicure and eliminate contact with the allergen in the future.
Further therapy is aimed at eliminating skin pathologies. We can help with this:
- antihistamines - Loratadine, Claritin, Cetrin, Pipolfen, Suprastin, Fenkarol, Erius;
- moisturizing and nourishing hand creams;
- hormonal and non-hormonal ointments for the treatment of allergic manifestations on the skin - Advantan, Akriderm, Dermovate, Lokoid, Sinalar, Flucinar, Elokom;
- anti-inflammatory and antiallergic drugs - Bepanten, Gistan, Skin-cap, Fenistil.
The listed drugs must be used in combination. This is the only way to stop the inflammatory process, relieve itching and irritation, and eliminate skin rashes. It is advisable to coordinate therapeutic measures with a doctor, since even the safest medicine has a number of contraindications and side effects. And with regard to antihistamines, you need to be especially careful, because their uncontrolled use can undermine the immune system.
Respiratory manifestations of an allergy to gel polish pose a potential danger to a woman’s health, so as first aid you need to take a systemic antihistamine - a tablet, capsule or syrup that you have on hand. If shortness of breath appears, breathing becomes difficult, and parts of the face are swollen, it is better to call an ambulance.
For severe sneezing and rhinorrhea, it is recommended to use nasal drops that relieve swelling and have an antiallergic effect:
- Allergodil S;
- Vibrocil;
- Sanorin Analergin.
The gastrointestinal tract can be cleansed of toxins using enterosorbents (Atoxil, Lactofiltrum, Polysorb, Enterosgel), and the immune system can be strengthened by taking a vitamin-mineral complex prescribed by a doctor.
There are also traditional methods of treatment, which include baths or lotions from decoctions of medicinal plants: chamomile, string, mint, yarrow, celandine, sage. They must be used with caution, since any of the plant components can, in turn, become an allergen and aggravate the health condition.
What to do if you are allergic to gel polish?
If you have an allergic reaction to gel polish, do not worry, because there are many alternative options. First, you need to eliminate the consequences of allergies on your hands, and, if necessary, and in agreement with your doctor, undergo antihistamine and hormonal therapy. To care for your nails, use special products containing vitamins A and E.
Cheap products should be replaced with high-quality cosmetics. Judging by reviews on the Internet, expensive gel polishes practically do not cause allergies. These include:
- original (genuine) Shellac from CND, purchased from an official dealer;
- Gelcolor from OPI;
- Harmony Gelish;
- Red Carpet;
- Jessica GELeration;
- RuNail is a product of domestic cosmetologists that has proven itself well among the variety of similar products.
If you are allergic to gel polish, the advice of those women who have suffered from innovative products but have not stopped caring for their nails may be useful. They suggest using Seche Ultra-V Top Coat, which cures under ultraviolet light, and applying regular varnishes underneath. In addition, no one has denied the beauty of traditional varnishes: they are far from the durability of gel varnishes, but they can be changed at least 2 times a day.
If you are allergic to a UV lamp, it is recommended to apply gel polishes that dry without ultraviolet light, for example, Vinilux from CND or GelLac from Sophin. They usually last up to 7 days, so not everyone likes them.
Prevention
To protect yourself from the adverse effects of manicure, you should listen to the advice of experts and take preventive measures:
- For the first time, get a manicure from a manicurist who has established himself as a professional. It is better if the procedure takes place in a salon rather than at home.
- Give preference to high-quality cosmetics that have been certified. Avoid cheap gel polishes, which are more likely to cause allergies.
- Store bottles avoiding direct sunlight on the bottle and maintaining the required temperature conditions.
- When applying the coating, avoid getting the gel on your skin, and wash your hands with soap after the procedure.
- Avoid visiting the salon during periods of unstable psycho-emotional state.
- Do not experiment with your own hands, trying to find a suitable gel polish.
It’s sad when an allergy to gel polish worries a manicurist and nail designer. Protective measures can help get rid of it: using a disposable medical mask, long sleeves and nitrile gloves while working, ventilating the room after each client and thoroughly cleaning the workplace.
Conclusion
Beautiful and well-groomed hands adorn a woman, but if after applying gel polish there are signs of allergies, you will have to stop applying it forever. There are few alternative options that can replace this remedy. However, your own health should come first in any case.
What can be replaced
Name and active substance | Release form | Indications | Contraindications | Price |
Polyphepane (hydrolysis lignin) | Powder | - poisoning; - allergies; — removal of radioactive elements. Allowed for children from one year old | - intestinal diseases in the acute stage; - extensive skin lesions | 150 rub. |
Smecta (magnesium and aluminum) | Powder | - poisoning; - allergies; - disturbances of intestinal flora. Allowed for children from one month | - personal intolerance | 210 rub. |
Almagel (aluminum oxide) | Suspension | - gastritis, colitis, pancreatitis, heartburn; - food and medication poisoning. Allowed for children over 10 years old | - pregnancy; - children under 10 years of age; - acute form of renal failure | 270 rub. |
Polysorb MP (silicon dioxide) | Powder | - poisoning; - intestinal infections; - allergic rashes. Allowed for children from one year old | - intestinal obstruction; - intestinal diseases in the acute stage | 300 rub. |