Everyone should know how to take Smecta and in what cases. Food poisoning, diarrhea, bloating and gas are incomplete symptoms that the drug can eliminate. "Smecta" is an effective medicine that should be taken for diarrhea and intestinal disorders. The indications for use of the drug are extensive, and the medicine itself is absolutely natural and has almost no contraindications. This remedy has no age restrictions, so it can be taken by both adults and children. Today, almost everyone has this medicine in their medicine cabinet, because the drug is effective not only for diarrhea, and it contains natural ingredients. “Smecta” has a positive effect on the body: it binds pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms naturally. In this case, the medicine quickly restores the functionality of the gastrointestinal tract and normalizes the patient’s condition.
Composition of "Smecta"
"Smecta" is a universal adsorbent. “Smecta” or diosmectite is a medicinal product consisting of natural ingredients that has an adsorbing effect and protects the intestinal mucosa from chemical and mechanical damage. The drug is sold in powder form, which is an aluminum and magnesium silicate. The adsorbent contains three grams of diosmectite, which is also called dioctahedral smectite.
The powder is sold in two flavors: orange and vanilla. The suspension includes vanilla and orange flavors, sodium saccharinate, dextrose monohydrate. "Smecta" is a substance with an astringent effect. The suspension has an adsorbing and enveloping effect, binds toxins and removes them from the body. The chemical composition of the powder is absolutely natural, so side effects from taking the suspension, according to the instructions, are excluded. The pharmacological effect that the substance has allows it to be used by both adults and children who are not even one year old.
Smecta is a drug intended for the treatment of patients in the following cases:
- after eating poor quality food;
- when toxic substances enter the body;
- when a patient experiences irritable bowel syndrome;
- if an allergic reaction occurs;
- disorders associated with the gastrointestinal tract.
The drug is a powder that helps with acute digestive disorders. But even such small particles of powder can damage the mucous membranes. Be sure to follow the dosage when treating with this drug.
Smecta, unlike other similar drugs, removes only harmful substances. Microelements and vitamins necessary for humans remain in the body.
What is the drug made from?
Smecta is a universal one that is designed to remove harmful elements from the body. The active ingredient of the product is diosmectite. The powder is sold in orange or vanilla flavors.
Diosmectite is made from a special shell rock that is mined in Sardinia. This is a drug of natural origin. Thanks to its natural composition, Smecta can be used by both adults and children.
In addition to diosmectite, the composition of the medicine includes:
- fruit flavors;
- sodium saccharinate;
- dextrose monohydrate.
Excipients
Sodium saccharinate is considered a sugar substitute. It is usually prescribed to diabetics. The white crystals are odorless but have a very sweet taste. The organism is also excreted in its original form.
Dextrose monohydrate is a natural component made from glucose. This substance takes an active part in metabolic processes. When there is a lack of sugar in the blood, it replenishes its deficiency.
Natural raw materials are used to produce fruit flavors.
The suspension envelops the intestinal walls, binds and removes various toxins from the body. It helps cope with the symptoms of dysbiosis and acute diarrhea.
Release forms
Smecta is a grayish-white or grayish-yellow powder. It is packaged in packages weighing 3.76 g. One package contains 3 grams of active substance. The packages are placed in boxes of 10 and 30 pieces.
pharmachologic effect
The principle of action of the drug is based on creating a mucous barrier in the gastrointestinal tract. By using Smecta you can get rid of toxic compounds. The product absorbs only viruses, bacteria and harmful compounds. They are excreted from the body along with feces. Smecta does not disrupt intestinal motility even with long-term use.
The active substance is not absorbed in the intestines and is completely excreted from the body naturally.
How to take the drug for adults
To get rid of the symptoms of diarrhea, you need to take 3 sachets of the product per day (9 grams). Before use, dilute the powder in 125 ml of boiled water. There should be no lumps left in the finished mixture.
How to properly breed Smecta?
Dissolve a sachet of product in 100 grams of warm water. This method of use is suitable for adults and children over 1 year of age. To ensure that the baby does not refuse to take the medicine, it must be dissolved in infant formula. Wait until the powder is completely dissolved. There should be no lumps of the drug left at the bottom.
Compatibility with other drugs
Thanks to the use of Smecta, the rate of absorption of other drugs is reduced, since it has strong absorbent properties. It can only be used 2 hours after taking another drug.
Should Smecta be taken before or after meals?
It all depends on the specific disease. For heartburn, the suspension should be drunk immediately after eating. Patients with esophagitis should take the drug after meals.
In other cases, the effect of the medicine will be more effective if you drink it 2 hours after eating.
Features of treatment during pregnancy
Smecta consists of natural ingredients that do not pose a danger to the body of a pregnant woman. This is the most gentle method of treating digestive disorders during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes restructuring. Expectant mothers experience digestive problems. Smecta allows you to remove harmful substances from the body.
Features of treatment in childhood
Smecta for children can be diluted in milk or puree. This will make it easier for the child to take the drug. The optimal dose for a baby is 1 sachet per day. It is advisable to divide this dose into 2 doses.
Smecta for babies
The active components of the powder do not enter the newborn’s blood. Therefore, the product is not capable of having a negative effect on the baby’s body. Smecta is not addictive and is completely excreted from the body along with feces.
The medicine fights bacteria and microorganisms that cause diarrhea and colic in babies. The principle of action of the drug resembles. But it acts more gently, without damaging the child’s intestinal mucous membranes.
Smecta is used to treat the following symptoms:
- bloating in the baby;
- intestinal colic;
- diarrhea due to ingestion of food inappropriate for the child;
- drug poisoning;
- the appearance of attacks of heartburn and vomiting.
Features of treatment for acute diarrhea
Still suffering from bouts of diarrhea? Smecta can quickly normalize loose stools. The drug should be taken at the first sign of diarrhea. This is enough to eliminate the consequences of this disease.
The dosage of the drug depends on age:
- Children under one year of age should be given 2 sachets per day for 3 days. On day 4, the daily dose should be reduced to 1 sachet.
- To cure acute diarrhea in children from 1 to 12 years old, you need to take up to 4 sachets per day. This dosage should be maintained for 3 days of illness. On day 4, the amount of the drug should be reduced to 2 sachets per day.
- The recommended dose for children over 12 years of age and adults is 6 sachets.
Use of Smecta for vomiting
The drug helps stop attacks of vomiting and nausea. This is due to the fact that the components of the product bind toxins that accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract. Vomiting is a protective mechanism that helps the body get rid of dangerous substances as quickly as possible. Enterosorbents instantly capture toxin molecules. After cleansing the body, the urge to vomit stops.
Side effects
The following side effects may occur during treatment with the drug:
- a rash appears on the patient’s skin;
- the patient complains of constant itching;
- in case of overdose, constipation develops;
- increased gas formation;
- the appearance of belching and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach.
Smecta should not be taken if you are intolerant to lactose, which is part of it.
Doctors do not recommend treatment with this remedy for more than 7 days. Long-term use of the drug can lead to putrefactive processes in the intestines.
List of contraindications
Smecta is prohibited from being used by patients in the following cases:
- The patient suffers from. This disease is characterized by impaired movement of feces through the intestines. Smecta only aggravates the human condition. Often a person self-medicates without making a diagnosis. As a result, necrosis of rectal tissue may occur.
- The patient was found to have hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. Carefully study the composition of the medicine before treatment.
- Not all people can digest fructose. Even a small amount of sugar in a patient's food causes fatigue and weakness.
It is human nature to encounter a variety of diseases and pathological processes. Some of them go away on their own and do not pose any threat to health. Others require some correction. In some cases, the result of treatment depends on how timely taking certain medications was started. This article will tell you how to take Smecta as an adult. You will find out the specific instructions for using this medicine. You can also learn how to dilute Smecta for an adult as correctly as possible.
Composition of the drug
This product is available exclusively in powder form. It can have different shades: from white to brownish. It is worth saying that the medicine is not bitter or unpleasant in taste. Even children will be happy to use Smecta.
The main active ingredient of the medicine is dioctahedral smectite. The drug also contains additional components. These include glucose, sodium saccharin and vanillin. It is thanks to this content that the drug has a sweet taste.
Who is the drug prescribed for?
The product is recommended for use in the treatment of various diseases of the digestive system. Doctors prescribe this composition for colitis, gastritis, ulcers, flatulence, bloating, and so on. The medicine is very effective in treating diarrhea, poisoning, and increased gas formation of various origins.
The solution is also used to cleanse the body of various toxins. Some people use the composition for weight loss or to remove unnecessary drugs from the body.
What are the contraindications for using the medicine?
Before taking Smecta, an adult should read the instructions. It is worth recalling that the drug is absolutely safe for the patient. It is not absorbed into the blood and acts only in the digestive tract. However, there are some restrictions in the use of this composition.
If the patient suffers from intestinal obstruction, then this treatment should be abandoned and an alternative method should be chosen. Otherwise, serious complications may occur. Of course, doctors are aware of this condition and never prescribe medicine for such a pathology. However, most people use this composition on their own due to its safety.
Those people who have hypersensitivity to the components of the drug should also refrain from treatment. Remember that the powder contains sugars. If you have a history of diabetes, then you should choose a different treatment method.
Medicine "Smecta" for adults: instructions
The drug must be prepared before use. Remember that consuming dry powder can lead to complications and may not provide any effect. Before using the medicine, carefully read the instructions contained in each package of the drug "Smecta".
Instructions for use (for adults) say the following. The powder must be dissolved in half a glass of boiled water. To do this, you need to boil the liquid and let it cool slightly. The temperature of the drink should not be very hot. Otherwise, the active substance may react at high temperatures. Also, do not use cold water. The powder may simply not dissolve in such a liquid. It is worth noting that warm water at body temperature is absorbed much better than any other drink.
How to dilute Smecta for an adult correctly? Take 100 milliliters of liquid with a temperature of 36-40 degrees. Separate one sachet from the seal of the drug. Gently shake the bag so that its contents move downward, otherwise it may spill out when opening the package. Using scissors, cut off the top of the bag and slowly pour the powder into the liquid. In this case, you need to stir the solution with a spoon.
As a result, you should get a white or grayish liquid of uniform consistency. Remember that if sediment or lumps form, you need to thoroughly mix the composition again. You can drink the solution only after the powder has completely dissolved.
How to use Smecta
The drug is still prescribed to adults more often than to children, so it is the correct use of the drug for adults that we will now focus on.
So, you have prepared the medicine. The question arises about how to take Smecta for an adult in one case or another. It has already been said above that the medicine can be used for different purposes. However, the method of application of the composition and the duration of the course will always differ.
In all cases, the drug is taken orally. The prepared composition should be drunk in large sips and, if necessary, washed down with a glass of plain water. Let's look at how to take Smecta for an adult in one case or another.
For diarrhea of unknown origin
The drug "Smecta" is most often used for diarrhea in adults. If you have acute diarrhea, you can use up to six sachets of the drug per day. In this case, be sure to take the medicine with clean water. This will help avoid dehydration.
The solution should be consumed in conjunction with a specific diet. You should take the drug no earlier than two hours after eating. Treatment can last up to three days. If during this period of time you do not feel better, then you should contact a medical institution as soon as possible to receive qualified advice and medical prescription.
In case of poisoning
How should adults drink Smecta correctly if they are poisoned by food or drugs? This product is an excellent sorbent. It enters the human body and removes all harmful and toxic substances from it. That is why the drug is often prescribed to treat poisoning.
In this case, you should use no more than three sachets per day. In this case, you need to use the composition before meals (no later than an hour). Remember that for effective treatment the food must be appropriate. Avoid eating heavy and fatty foods. Give preference to broths and liquid dishes.
To cleanse the body
How should an adult drink Smecta to cleanse the body of toxins? The drug is an excellent excretory agent. If you just want to cleanse your intestines, then you need to carry out a certain course of treatment.
Take one sachet daily on an empty stomach. Only after two or three hours do you have your first meal. This correction can last from one week to a month.
For weight loss
Many representatives of the fair sex use the composition to correct their weight. Such treatment is acceptable, but certain dosages and rules must be followed. Do not overuse the composition. Although safe, large doses can lead to unexpected consequences.
To correct the figure, the solution is used in half the dosage before each meal. You need to drink the composition no later than half an hour before meals. The product can dull the feeling of hunger and speed up satiety.
For colic and flatulence
How should an adult drink Smecta if there is increased gas formation and abdominal pain? If you are absolutely sure that the diagnosis is correct, then you can safely use the solution prepared according to the instructions. In this case, one-time use will be quite sufficient.
The medicine enters the stomach and then into the intestines. This is where gases split into small bubbles. After this, the drug gently removes air from the intestines and eliminates flatulence.
How should pregnant and lactating women use the product?
Surely everyone knows that this group of people belongs to a special category. Expectant and new mothers are prohibited from using any medications. This is due to the fact that some components can be absorbed into the blood and penetrate to the fetus. Also, most drugs are excreted in breast milk.
The medicine "Smecta" is an exception to the rule. The solution only affects the patient's stomach and intestines. The main substance of the composition does not penetrate into the blood. That is why the drug is considered especially safe.
The solution is often prescribed to pregnant women during toxicosis. It allows you to get rid of nausea and stop vomiting. In this case, the composition is taken immediately after waking up and then as needed. The daily dose should not exceed three sachets. The same rule applies to nursing mothers. However, if there is still concern for the baby’s health, then you should use the solution immediately after breastfeeding. In this case, the risk that the baby will receive the medicine through milk completely disappears.
Conclusion
Now you know how to drink Smecta as an adult. The drug is so safe that it can be prescribed to a child from the first days of his life. However, an individual dosage is selected, which depends on the patient’s body weight and age. Remember that you should not self-medicate. Contact your doctors for a correct diagnosis and recommendations. Be healthy!
Food poisoning and diarrhea are very unpleasant conditions, regardless of the circumstances under which it occurs. For such annoying cases of illness, it’s a good idea to have a proven remedy in your first aid kit that will quickly improve your well-being. Understand the information on how to take Smecta, what unpleasant symptoms it can relieve - and you will always know what to do in case of sudden digestive upset. After reading the article, you will become familiar with the rules for taking this medicine for the treatment of adults and children with various disorders of the digestive tract.
What does Smecta help with?
This natural enterosorbent has a double therapeutic effect. The medicinal solution, entering the stomach and moving further, envelops the mucous membrane of the digestive system and protects it from further irritating effects of toxins. As it moves through the gastrointestinal tract, the main active ingredient of the medicine - dioctahedral smectite (special porous clay) - adsorbs harmful substances that cause intoxication of the body.
Thanks to these properties and effective, rapid action, “Smecta” is used to treat a wide range of diseases of the digestive system:
- diarrhea caused by poor-quality food, long-term use of antibiotics, exposure to allergens;
- intestinal dysbiosis;
- for food poisoning;
- for gastritis of the stomach, esophagitis (inflammation of the esophageal mucosa);
- in the complex therapy of dysentery, salmonellosis, intestinal flu, cholera and other severe infectious diseases;
- to eliminate heartburn, bloating, and intestinal flatulence.
How to drink Smecta
In order for the use of the medicine to have a quick result, read the general recommendations on how to dilute Smecta. This medicine is a powder packaged in sachets for single use. How to take Smecta correctly? To prepare the medicinal mixture, add the powder to water, stir it well and drink. The suspension should be prepared immediately before use, do not dilute it for future use and do not allow it to be stored for many hours. It is recommended to take the medicine between meals, and for esophagitis - after meals.
For adults
The optimal dosage of the drug for adult patients does not exceed 3 sachets per day, but in case of acute diarrhea in the first 1-2 days of the disease it can be doubled as prescribed by the attending physician. For a single dose, you need to dissolve Smecta in half a glass of lukewarm drinking water. You should not self-medicate and take a much higher dose of medication - although the drug is practically harmless, it sometimes causes constipation.
For children
Doctors sometimes ask whether Smecta is suitable for newborns. This drug of natural origin can be taken even by infants, starting from the age of one month. Smecta for children can be diluted not only with water, but also with juices, compotes, broths, and milk formulas. For treatment, the contents of the sachet must be dissolved in 50 grams of liquid and given to drink. Find out how to take Smecta for a child, depending on the identified disease and the age of the baby.
Childhood | Indications for use |
|
Acute diarrhea | Other indications |
|
From 1 month to 1 year | The first 3 days of illness - 2 sachets throughout the day, then - 1 sachet per day | 1 sachet per day |
From 1 year to 2 years of age | 1-2 sachets throughout the day |
|
Over 2 years old | 2-3 sachets per day |
|
How to use Smecta
It is better to separate the use of this drug from the use of other medications by at least half an hour, because when taken simultaneously, it will adsorb the drugs. The dosage of enterosorbent does not depend on the patient’s age (with the exception of one-year-old children) or on the patient’s body weight; it should be determined by the severity of intoxication of the body in each specific case. Read the information on how to take Smecta correctly for various causes of illness.
In case of poisoning
"Smecta" is very effective for food poisoning. This drug is often used in cases of alcohol intoxication. Once in the digestive tract, the medicine takes on the toxins that have penetrated here, adsorbing harmful substances even from the gastrointestinal mucosa. The special mucus created by the drug lines the food tube, allowing the cells to recover after a malfunction of the organ.
During its action, the drug eliminates dysbiosis and creates a favorable environment for the natural beneficial intestinal microflora. In case of poisoning, you should take Smecta three times a day between meals, dissolving 1-2 sachets for each meal. The course of medication is set depending on the severity of the condition, ranging from at least 3 to 5-7 days.
When vomiting
The drug is taken for vomiting if it is caused by the body's reaction to toxic substances and is not a symptom of a disease of the digestive system. In such cases, before using Smecta, the patient’s stomach is washed so that the enterosorbent acts directly on the irritated mucous membrane more quickly. Taking the drug for these symptoms of digestive system disorders should not exceed the recommended daily dose. Use should be stopped if vomiting has stopped and the patient does not experience nausea, diarrhea, etc.
For nausea
For this symptom, Smecta is prescribed if nausea is a manifestation of food poisoning. Sometimes this drug can be prescribed to pregnant women if they often suffer from toxicosis. A patient who wants to get rid of nausea with the help of Smecta should monitor the frequency of bowel movements sufficiently to prevent prolonged constipation.
For diarrhea
Diarrhea (the popular name for the disease is diarrhea) is the most common disorder of the gastrointestinal tract for which enterosorbent is used. How to take Smecta to get rid of diarrhea? Depending on how acute the patient’s diarrhea is, taking the drug can last from 3 to 7 days. The dosage of the medicine was discussed above. “Smecta” can be prescribed for diarrhea even in infants. To treat infants, the contents of the sachet should be diluted with 50 milliliters of water and the resulting suspension should be given to the child to drink a teaspoon at a time throughout the day.
For constipation
In case of such a malfunction of the digestive system, Smecta is not prescribed; it will only aggravate this condition. If the patient has a previous history of prolonged constipation, he should definitely inform the doctor about this. In such cases, if it is necessary to take Smecta, the drug is taken with caution, observing the frequency of stool. If constipation occurs during the use of this drug and, for medical reasons, treatment must be continued, it is necessary to reduce the dose of enterosorbent.
For heartburn
Heartburn is a common manifestation of inflammatory processes in the esophagus. The use of Smecta for such an unpleasant symptom has a softening effect. This is due to the fact that the action of the drug increases the volume and density of mucus covering the gastrointestinal tract, thereby alleviating irritation. A special feature of using Smecta for heartburn is that to achieve a good therapeutic effect, this suspension must be drunk immediately after eating.
Smecta during pregnancy and lactation
According to the annotation for the drug, it can be used to treat ailments of the digestive tract in women during pregnancy and lactation. This permission is logical based on the mechanism of action of Smecta powder, because it is not absorbed into the blood and is not excreted in breast milk. After passing through the gastrointestinal tract, the enterosorbent is completely eliminated from the woman’s body without affecting the child. Although Smecta is actually a harmless drug, during pregnancy it should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor and for no more than 3 days, because it can cause constipation.
Video: Smecta, instructions for use
“Smecta” is most often used for poisoning. According to its chemical properties, the medicine belongs to the group of intestinal adsorbents, and according to its pharmacological action, it is classified as a drug for the symptomatic treatment of acute and chronic diarrhea. How to use Smecta and what is its advantage over other drugs in this group? 
Composition of the drug
“Smecta” acts effectively and quickly in case of poisoning due to its composition. The main substance is a powder of natural origin from the group of aluminosilicates, like clay. The international name is dioctahedral smectite, or diosmectite. 
It is extracted naturally from natural rocks. To improve the taste and obtain a more stable suspension, when the drug is diluted with water, glucose, saccharin and vanillin are added to the composition. The children's version of "Smecta" is produced with orange flavoring.
How does Smecta work?
The action of the drug is based on its ability to selectively adsorb toxic substances and create a protective barrier together with intestinal mucus. When poisoned, “Smecta” takes on poisons, toxins, pathogenic bacteria and even viruses. Due to its special crystalline structure, smectite has a selective effect and does not remove vitamins and microelements from the body. It is not absorbed in the intestines and passes through in transit, leaving naturally and taking with it the products of poisoning. 
The second, no less useful effect of Smecta is its ability to increase the amount of intestinal mucus. By forming bonds with the glycoproteins it contains, smectite stabilizes mucus in the intestines and improves its protective properties. Therefore, the impact of aggressive factors - hydrochloric acid in the stomach, bile acids in the intestines, bacteria and their toxins, as well as toxic substances coming from outside - is significantly weakened. Possessing enveloping properties, Smecta slows down the rate of absorption of poisons and toxins from the intestines into the bloodstream.
Dosage for adults
"Smecta" for diarrhea is taken in the following doses:
- Single dose - one sachet (3 grams),
- The daily dose is three sachets (9 grams).
Before use, the powder is diluted in water (about 100 ml), pouring it out and stirring constantly. A cloudy suspension should form. When settling, the powder partially settles; it can be mixed again without losing the effectiveness of the medicine. 
How to drink “Smecta” in case of poisoning: after washing the stomach, dilute one packet and drink the mixture. If there is no vomiting, drink the second packet after two hours. Then take according to the instructions, focusing on the manifestations of poisoning - diarrhea and vomiting.
Use for diarrhea
“Smecta” for diarrhea is taken three times a day, one sachet. The drug is effective for food poisoning from poor-quality products, bacterial in nature (salmonellosis, colibacillosis), mushrooms, and poisons from the chemical industry. Used for allergic digestive disorders and drug poisoning. 
As a rule, if the disease proceeds without complications, it takes about three days to restore normal stool. After the diarrhea stops, you can continue taking the drug for several days, as it has protective properties against the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract damaged during the illness. It is not recommended to take the drug for more than seven days.
Using Smecta for vomiting
The drug does not have an antiemetic effect. However, in case of poisoning, Smecta can stop vomiting and reduce nausea. This is due to the fact that toxic products bind and are removed from the body faster. 
Since vomiting is a protective mechanism aimed at getting rid of toxins and removing them from the stomach, removing poisons with enterosorbents stops the urge to vomit. “Smecta” for nausea will only help if the process is local in nature and the central nervous system is not involved. Some mushroom toxins and medications stimulate the vomiting center in the brain. In this case, “Smecta” is powerless; the introduction of specific antidotes will be required.
With severe vomiting, taking any medications orally is problematic. If the powder you just swallowed comes back out with vomit, then you should take another dose of Smecta, since the previous portion did not enter the intestines and did not have time to act. In the case when you need to do a gastric lavage from a poison that has recently entered the body, you can do this with a large amount of warm water, dissolving two bags of Smecta in each liter. The drug will adsorb the poison in the stomach until vomiting occurs.
Advantages of the drug
Compared to other enterosorbents, Smecta has a number of advantages:
- Has selective sorption properties.
- Smectite particles have a delicate texture and smooth surface and do not injure the intestinal mucosa.
- The drug has enveloping properties.
- Rarely causes allergic reactions.
- Has virtually no side effects.
People often ask whether Smecta can be taken during pregnancy. Yes, the drug can be taken by pregnant and lactating women, as well as children of any age.
Disadvantages of the drug
“Smecta” for food poisoning is not indicated for every patient. The drug should not be prescribed in the following cases:
- Intestinal obstruction.
- Malabsorption syndrome.
- Fructose intolerance.
With long-term use of the medicine for more than a week or with a significant excess of the dosage, a decrease in the activity of intestinal motility and constipation is possible. 
A minor drawback of the drug is that before use it is necessary to prepare a suspension from the powder. If you first pour smectite into a glass and then pour in water, difficultly soluble lumps will form. If you follow the breeding instructions, difficulties usually do not arise.
Like all enterosorbents, the drug should be taken separately from other medications, with a two-hour break between them. Otherwise, Smecta will slow down the absorption of the drug from the intestine or partially absorb it, weakening the effectiveness of treatment.
How to give to children
Smecta is widely used for poisoning in children. In this case, the dosage will depend on age.
- For children under one year of age, the daily dose is a maximum of 3 grams (1 sachet).
- From one to two years, give 1-2 sachets per day (maximum daily dose 6 grams).
- After two years, 2-3 sachets per day (up to 9 grams) are prescribed.
If the dosage is accidentally exceeded, nothing bad will happen. Short-term constipation is possible, which is undesirable in case of poisoning, because toxic products must be removed from the body.
"Smecta" in case of poisoning in children is diluted in 50 ml of water, milk formula, fruit puree. It is advisable to use water, since dairy products somewhat reduce the effectiveness of the drug. Young children do not need to be given a single serving at once. You can dilute a third of the sachet in 20-30 ml of liquid and give one teaspoon for 1-2 hours. Then take a break for two hours and give the next portion. Most kids don’t like the taste of Smekta. Some people prefer the medicine with orange flavor, while others prefer to give it regular powder mixed with fruit puree.
"Smecta" for alcohol poisoning
A hangover syndrome is nothing more than poisoning of the body with the breakdown products of alcohol. Nausea and headaches are mainly caused by the formation of acetate compounds in large quantities in tissues. In this case, the drug will not particularly relieve the symptoms. But if a person has consumed low-quality alcohol or exceeded the dose, then taking adsorbents somewhat improves the situation. 
"Smecta" in case of poisoning - the instructions do not specify whether it is alcohol poisoning or not - it is taken according to the general scheme - one sachet three times a day. If you drink too much alcohol, you can drink three sachets with a break of two hours. The main thing is not to exceed the daily dose of 9 grams. This method is not recommended for people prone to constipation.
Will Smecta help in case of poisoning if the toxic substance was not entered through the mouth, but, say, through the respiratory tract? No, in these cases all enterosorbents are useless.
"Smecta" is taken in case of acute and chronic food poisoning, as well as if poisons entered the body through the stomach and intestines. The drug is not absorbed into the blood, but remains in the intestinal lumen, binding and removing toxic substances from the body. Diosmectite, which constitutes the active ingredient of the drug, has a selective sorption effect, which distinguishes it from activated carbon. Like all adsorbents based on clay substances, diosmectite has the ability to increase the amount of mucus in the stomach and intestines, improve its gastroprotective properties against hydrochloric acid, bile, bacteria and their toxins. To completely restore intestinal activity and stop diarrhea, you need to take Smecta for three to six days.
Diarrhea always strikes a person suddenly. Diarrhea doesn’t care where the “lucky” owner is: at home, at work or on the road. Knowing how to alleviate or eliminate a painful symptom is necessary. Smecta is the most effective drug for diarrhea and vomiting. It belongs to a group of drugs called enterosorbents, or sorbents. The purpose is to absorb, like a sponge, chemicals hazardous to health: waste products of viruses and bacteria, traces of poisoning from household chemicals and spoiled food, technical fluids (gasoline, ethylene glycol, alcohols).
This medicine is of natural origin. Raw materials are shells of sea animals. The main component is dioctahedral smectite (silicate salts of magnesium and aluminum). In addition to the main component, the drug contains sweeteners: glucose and fructose. The reason for introducing additives is simple - in its pure form the drug tastes nasty. Smecta for children is made with the addition of vanillin and orange flavoring. Offering this medication option should be done with caution - the child may react with an allergy. Ignoring flavoring additives, most adults prefer to drink the suspension in one gulp.
The drug is available in sachets of 3 or 3.76 grams. The package contains 10 or 30 packets of the drug. Powder color: light gray or dirty yellow. The release form is extremely convenient - no need to bother with measuring spoons and glasses. Pour the contents into a glass of water, stir, and that’s it! When diluted, the powder becomes similar to a thick liquid soap of gray or yellowish color. It is not absorbed into the intestines. Has the property of relieving inflammation and pain. Slightly inhibits intestinal motility.
Intestinal peristalsis
Pharmacokinetics (mechanism of action)
The medication stimulates the production of mucus in the intestines, which separates pathogenic microorganisms from the walls. The released mucus enters into a chemical reaction with the drug, combining with it. A lump of mucus, fecal residues and medication is eliminated from the body through the rectum.
Indications for use
The drug is taken when:
- Diarrhea: chronic or acute (poisoning, intestinal infection).
- Allergic reaction to food or medicine.
- Chemical poisoning.
- As one of the components of the treatment of intestinal infection.
- For pathologies of the digestive system (gastritis, gastroenteritis, gastroduodenitis, stomach ulcers, cholecystitis) to relieve symptoms.
The drug should not be taken:
- Allergy to additives. It happens very rarely and only in children. The culprit is vanilla or orange flavoring.
- Intestinal obstruction and severe constipation. Due to the cleansing properties of Smecta, the volume of feces increases sharply. If the intestines are affected by neoplasms, the remedy does not help, but aggravates the situation. Surgery may be required.
- Pathologies of absorption of glucose, sucrose, fructose and starch.
Side effects and overdose
Negative consequences of taking it include constipation due to a decrease in the activity of the intestinal muscles and allergic reactions to the main components of the medicine. Long-term use (more than a week) and an excessive dose causes constipation.
Instructions for use for diarrhea
For newborns and children aged 1 year: dilute 1 packet of powder in a quarter glass (50 ml) of boiled water and drink through a bottle. If the baby refuses to take the suspension because of the taste, it is worth trying analogues of Smecta: Diosmectite or Neosmectin.
For children over 1 year old, adolescents and adults: pour the contents of the package with half a glass (100 ml) of water and stir until a homogeneous liquid is obtained.
The drug acts 2-5 minutes after entering the stomach. Many medications do not help so quickly. This is an additional advantage for Smecta. The action lasts within 3-4 hours.
For the medicine to help, it must be taken correctly. For loose stools:
- Children under one year: 3 packs. – 3 days, then 2 packs/day.
- Children over 1 year: 4 packs. – 3 days, then 3 packs/day.
- Teenagers and adults: 6 packs/day.
For other gastrointestinal pathologies:
- Children under one year: 1 pack/day.
- Children over 1 year: 2 packs/day.
- Teenagers and adults: 3 packs/day.
The optimal time to take is between meals. If the goal is to relieve the symptoms of stomach diseases, Smecta is taken after meals. The use of other medications after Smecta loses its meaning due to its sorbent properties. It will absorb all the active substances, and the medications will be of no use.
Taking before meals is not recommended, since the drug, in addition to the enterosorbent, is a non-steroidal drug. This type of medication relieves inflammation and muscle pain. Reacting with hydrochloric acid in the stomach, Smecta harms the organ, causing the development of ulcers.
Advantages
Smecta has a number of undeniable advantages over analogues, proven by experts and discovered in practice:
- Efficiency in the fight against rotavirus infection. Many children from four to twelve years old suffer from the pathology. Smecta removes more than 80 percent of pathogens from the body. This significantly speeds up the patient’s recovery process.
- Addition to solutions that regulate water-salt balance. Thanks to the content of magnesium, potassium and sodium in the powder, the body partially restores the lack of these elements.
- Encourages the intestines to produce additional mucus. This allows you to cleanse the intestines of toxins and pathogens. Significantly reduces the time for diarrhea to appear.
- Analgesic and antispasmodic effects. The composition of the medicine alleviates the unpleasant symptoms accompanying indigestion: bloating, pain, colic. The drug also reduces the activity of intestinal smooth muscles.
- Transparency for X-ray machine. This means that before taking an image of the abdominal cavity (to determine the source of pain in the back or lower back), you do not need to do a cleansing enema.
Can pregnant, nursing mothers and one-year-old babies take Smecta?
The drug is absolutely safe for infants and newborns. Pregnant and nursing mothers will also not be harmed by taking the medicine. The drug is not absorbed by the body and acts exclusively in the intestinal cavity. For this reason, the fetus does not come into contact with the product; taking it eliminates the need to express milk before taking it.
It can be taken to eliminate pain and bloating, which is caused by intestinal gas. The medicine is taken once or in a course of 3 days.
If a child has diarrhea, one should not forget to replenish lost fluid. A loss of 10% (of body weight) of fluid worsens the patient’s condition: autointoxication begins and the production of hormones and enzymes is disrupted. And 20% threaten the baby and newborn with death. The consequences of dehydration do not differ between adults and adolescents.
Dosages of rehydrating solutions are selected taking into account the intensity of diarrhea, the patient’s age and the degree of dehydration.
For patients suffering from chronic constipation, the medicine is used in accordance with the dosage. You should wait one to two hours between meals and medications.
Smecta has a calming effect on the mucous membrane of the upper circle of digestive organs. If vomiting is caused by irritation, the drug will help eliminate the symptom.
A person going on a trip should have a first aid kit in his bag in case of intestinal disorders. It includes the following drugs:
- Enzymatic: Mezim, Pancreatin, Creon, Festal.
- For diarrhea: Smecta, Immodium, Enterosgel, Enterofuril, Rifaximin.
- For vomiting and nausea: Pipolfen, Betahistine, Diazepam.
- Antispasmodics: No-shpa (Drotaverine), Papaverine, Platiphylline.
Shelf life and storage conditions
Store the drug in a dry and dark room at a temperature not exceeding 25 C. Storage duration is 3 years from the date of manufacture indicated on the packaging.
Using expired medications for treatment will not give the expected result due to loss of properties. It is also possible to independently transform the drug into a toxic substance. This may cause poisoning.
Smecta is a medicinal product from the group of sorbents, which is of natural origin and has an additional protective property for the organs of the digestive tract. Smecta is used for pain syndrome accompanying diseases of the esophagus, stomach or duodenum, as well as for intestinal colic. However, the most widespread use of Smecta is as a universal remedy for acute and chronic diarrhea of any origin.Smecta is a medicine that is required in the home medicine cabinet. The main advantages include the low cost of the drug and the almost complete absence of side effects. It is included in the list of a few medications approved for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Release forms and composition
Currently, Smecta is produced in a single dosage form - this powder for the preparation of suspension for oral administration with orange or vanilla flavoring. The powder is colored grayish-white or grayish-yellow and is packaged in sealed sachets of 3.76 g, which, in turn, are placed in cardboard boxes of 10 or 30 pieces.As an active ingredient, the drug contains smectite dioctahedral in the amount of 3 g per sachet of powder. The following substances are included in Smecta powder as auxiliary components:
- Orange or vanilla flavoring;
- Dextrose monohydrate;
- Sodium saccharinate.
What does Smecta help with (therapeutic effects)
Smecta is a natural aluminosilicate that has pronounced adsorbing, enveloping and gastroprotective properties. The adsorbent effect means that the drug is able to bind various pathogenic bacteria (including staphylococci), viruses, fungi and toxic substances in the intestinal lumen, retain them on its surface and remove them from the body along with feces. Thanks to this main adsorbing effect, Smecta effectively cures poisoning (including food poisoning) and diarrhea caused by intestinal infections or other causes, and also reduces intoxication in chronic diseases of internal organs.
Thanks to selective sorption, Smecta binds, neutralizes and removes only toxic substances and pathogenic microorganisms. At the same time, the drug does not bind vitamins, minerals, nutrients and representatives of normal intestinal microflora. That is, Smecta removes only pathogenic microbes and substances from the intestines, without affecting those useful and necessary for the body.
The enveloping and gastroprotective effect of Smecta is ensured by the high fluidity of the suspension, thanks to which it is able to cover the entire surface of the mucous membrane with a thin layer. The enveloping and gastroprotective effect of the drug provides the following therapeutic effects:
1.
Stabilizes the condition of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, filling existing defects, as well as forming bonds with glycoproteins, which, in turn, improves the quality of mucus and its life expectancy. Thus, Smecta forms a thin physical barrier on the surface of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, protecting them from damage.
2.
Neutralizes the negative effects on the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines of hydrochloric acid, hydrogen ions, bile acids, microbes and the toxins they produce, thereby preventing exacerbations and accelerating the cure of chronic diseases, and reducing the severity of pain.
In therapeutic dosages, Smecta is not able to disrupt normal intestinal motility, and therefore does not provoke constipation or diarrhea.
When taken orally, Smecta is not absorbed (even in severe intestinal diseases) and is completely eliminated from the body, without turning the stool any color.
Summarizing the therapeutic effects of Smecta, we can say that it helps against the following conditions and diseases:
- Diarrhea caused by any reason (food poisoning, intestinal infection, etc.);
- Severe intoxication (for example, with infectious diseases, after heavy drinking of alcohol, poisoning with various substances, etc.);
- Pain syndrome in diseases of the esophagus, stomach and intestines;
- Intestinal colic.
Indications for use of Smecta
Smecta is indicated for use in people of any age for the treatment of the following conditions:- Diarrhea of allergic origin;
- Drug-induced diarrhea (diarrhea in response to medications, such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea);
- Diarrhea due to poor diet;
- Diarrhea after eating low-quality or unusual food;
- Diarrhea caused by intestinal infections (rotavirus infection, cholera, etc.);
- Intestinal colic;
- Relief of heartburn, flatulence, abdominal pain and other symptoms of digestive disorders due to diseases of the esophagus, stomach and intestines (gastritis, ulcers, esophagitis, duodenitis, etc.).
Instructions for use
Smecta dosage
For acute diarrhea, Smecta should be taken in the following dosages, depending on age:- Children under one year old - take 2 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 1 sachet per day for another 2–4 days.
- Adolescents over 12 years of age and adults – take 6 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 3 sachets per day for another 2–4 days.
- Children 2 – 12 years old – take 2 – 3 sachets per day;
- Adolescents over 12 years of age and adults – take 3 sachets per day.
How to take Smecta?
If the child is not an infant, then the total daily dosage of Smecta should be divided into 2 - 3 doses. For example, if the doctor has prescribed you to take 6 sachets per day, then it is optimal to drink the drug three times a day, two sachets. Accordingly, at a dosage of 2 or 3 sachets per day, it is recommended to take the drug one sachet 2 or 3 times a day. If one sachet per day is prescribed, then it is taken at a time at any time of the day. In this case, it is recommended to dilute the required number of Smecta sachets in water each time immediately before taking, and not in advance. That is, when taking one sachet three times a day, each time the contents of one sachet should be diluted in half a glass of water immediately before use.In case of acute diarrhea, in addition to taking Smecta, it is imperative to replenish fluid losses in the body, that is, carry out rehydration therapy. This is especially important for infants under one year of age. Rehydration therapy consists of drinking a special solution (Regidron, Trisol, Disol, Gidrovit, Reosolan, Citraglucosolan, etc.), tea, compote, mineral water, fruit drink or any other liquid in the amount of 0.5 liters for each episode of loose stool. You should drink the liquid in small sips so as not to provoke vomiting.
People suffering from chronic constipation should take Smecta with caution, limiting the course of its use to the minimum effective period. That is, it is necessary to stop taking the powder as soon as the symptoms for which the use of Smecta was started disappear. For example, if the symptoms go away after 2 days, then you should not take the drug for longer.
Smecta - before or after meals?
For the symptomatic treatment of esophagitis, Smecta should be taken immediately after meals. In all other cases, the drug should be taken either one hour before or 2 hours after meals. Newborn infants take Smecta with food or drink, or between feedings, if possible.How to breed Smecta?
For adults or children who are able to drink 100 ml of suspension, it is necessary to dissolve the powder from one sachet in half a glass of warm boiled water. You should always dissolve the required amount of the drug immediately before each dose and drink the suspension within 5 to 10 minutes, and do not immediately prepare the daily dosage of Smecta, store it in the refrigerator and take it in portions.For infants, the contents of the required number of sachets per day are dissolved or thoroughly mixed in 50 ml of any liquid or semi-liquid product, for example milk, porridge, puree, compote, milk formula, etc. Then the total amount of the product with Smecta is distributed into several doses (optimally three, but more are possible) over the course of one day. The next day, if necessary, prepare a new portion of the liquid or semi-liquid product with Smecta.
To obtain a homogeneous suspension, you must first pour the required amount of water or liquid product into the preparation container (glass, deep bowl, baby bottle, etc.). Then slowly pour the powder from the bag into it, stirring the liquid constantly. The suspension is considered ready for use when it acquires a homogeneous consistency without inclusions or lumps.
Impact on the ability to operate machinery
Smecta does not affect the ability to control mechanisms, so the drug can be used without fear when performing any type of activity, including those associated with the need for high reaction speed and concentration.Overdose
An overdose of Smecta is impossible, since the drug is not absorbed into the systemic circulation. However, when taking a large dose of the drug, persistent constipation or a bezoar (a dense hard stone formed from stuck together particles of Smecta and feces) is possible.Interaction with other drugs
Smecta reduces the absorption of any other medications. Therefore, you should space out the intake of Smecta and other medications by 1 to 2 hours. That is, medications can be taken 1 - 2 hours before or 1 - 2 hours after Smecta.Smecta for children and newborns (infants)
General provisions
Smecta is approved for use in children from birth, so the drug can be safely given to children of any age, including infants. The complete safety of the powder for babies is due to the fact that it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, does not affect the functioning of the child’s organs and systems, is not addictive, is completely excreted from the body with feces and does not damage the mucous membranes of the esophagus, stomach and intestines.The drug binds and neutralizes various toxic substances and pathogenic bacteria in the intestines, including staphylococcus, which is a common cause of colic and unstable stool in infants. In principle, Smecta works in the same way as activated carbon, but its effect is much gentler, since its particles do not scratch or damage the mucous membranes of the children's stomach and intestines.
In children, including newborns, Smecta is used to eliminate the following conditions:
- Increased gas formation with flatulence and bloating;
- Intestinal colic;
- Diarrhea of any origin (including due to intestinal infection, allergic reaction, consumption of unusual or poor-quality food, etc.);
- Food or drug poisoning;
- Heartburn;
- Vomit.
In addition, Smecta is prescribed to newborn children on days 2–3 when postpartum physiological or pathological jaundice appears. The fact is that the cause of jaundice is bilirubin, formed from decaying fetal hemoglobin, and which does not have time to be neutralized by the immature liver of the newborn. As a result, bilirubin does not have time to be removed from the body, penetrates the tissues and turns the child’s skin yellow. To speed up the excretion of bilirubin and, accordingly, the disappearance of jaundice in a newborn, it is recommended to give the baby 1 sachet of Smecta per day for 3 to 5 days.
Instructions for use of Smecta for children
For acute diarrhea, Smecta should be given in the following dosages, depending on age:- Children under one year old - take 2 sachets per day for 3 days. Then, for another 2–4 days, take 1 sachet per day;
- Children 1 – 12 years old – take 4 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 2 sachets per day for another 2–4 days.
- Children under one year old - take 1 sachet per day;
- Children 1 – 2 years old – take 1 – 2 sachets per day;
- Children 2 – 12 years old – take 2 – 3 sachets per day.
How to give Smecta?
How to give Smecta? For children over 3 years old, Smecta should be given between meals. You can do this either an hour before or 2 hours after meals. Children under 3 years of age can be given Smecta with food or drink, since it is quite difficult to get them to take the medicine in isolation. Before taking, you should dissolve a packet of Smecta in half a glass of warm water, if the child is able to drink that amount of suspension at a time. If the child is small and cannot drink half a glass of the suspension at a time, then the daily amount of Smecta sachets (for example, 1, 2 or 3) should be diluted in 50 ml of milk, compote, milk formula or mixed into porridge, puree and other semi-liquid foods. Then drink or food with Smecta should be given to the child at least three times a day in approximately equal portions, making sure that he eats everything within 24 hours.
The daily dosage of Smecta for children should be divided into at least three doses per day. If necessary, it can be divided into 4 doses per day. For example, if a child is prescribed to take 2 sachets of Smecta per day, then it is optimal to give him half a sachet of powder diluted in 100 ml of water 4 times a day.
If the child is already able to drink the entire volume of the prepared suspension, then the required amount of powder should be diluted with water each time before taking it. If the baby cannot drink the entire suspension at once, then the total daily dosage of Smecta is diluted in liquid (milk, formula, water, compote, etc.) and given to the child 3–5 times a day. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the baby drinks all the liquid with Smecta during the day. If it is difficult for a child to give the drug both in the form of a suspension to take at a time, and as part of a liquid to drink gradually throughout the day, then you can mix the powder into semi-liquid food (for example, mashed potatoes, porridge, etc.). In this case, the number of sachets for administration at a time is mixed into the food, as if the powder were diluted in water.
Use during pregnancy
Smecta is approved for use throughout pregnancy and is taken for the same indications as for children, non-pregnant women or men. Dosages of Smecta for pregnant women correspond to those for adults, that is, in case of acute diarrhea, in the first three days you should take 2 sachets 3 times a day, and then for another 2 - 4 days, reduce the dosage by half (that is, 1 sachet per 3 times a day). For all other indications, Smecta is taken 1 sachet 3 times a day for 3 to 7 days. Smecta - use for various conditions
For diarrhea
Smecta for diarrhea is an effective remedy because it can normalize loose stools of any origin. Thus, Smecta is effective for diarrhea of any origin, caused by an intestinal infection, an allergic reaction, poisoning, taking medications, consuming poor-quality food, etc. Therefore, the drug can be taken when diarrhea occurs without wasting time trying to find out its causes.For diarrhea, Smecta must be taken for at least three days, even if the stool has returned to normal before. Dosages of the drug are determined by age:
- Children under one year old – take 2 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 1 sachet per day for another 2–4 days.
- Children 1 – 12 years old– take 4 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 2 sachets per day for another 2–4 days.
- – take 6 sachets per day for 3 days. Then take 3 sachets per day for another 2–4 days.
When vomiting
Smecta can be effective for vomiting because it is able to sorb (bind) various toxic substances that cause this condition. Therefore, if vomiting occurs, you can take 0.5 - 1 sachet of Smecta, diluting it in half a glass of warm water, and then monitor your own condition. If within 10–30 minutes the person’s well-being improved and vomiting did not recur, then treatment can be considered successful and continue for 2–3 days in the following dosages, depending on age:- Children under one year old – 1 sachet per day;
- Children 1 – 2 years old– 1 – 2 sachets per day;
- Children 2 – 12 years old– 1 sachet 2 – 3 times a day;
- Teenagers over 12 years old and adults – 1 sachet 3 times a day.
In case of poisoning
Smecta is an effective drug for poisoning because it is capable of absorbing numerous toxic substances in the lumen of the stomach and intestines that cause clinical manifestations of poisoning. As a result of sorption in the intestines, toxins cease to be absorbed into the bloodstream, and the symptoms of intoxication decrease. In case of poisoning with any substances, Smecta should be taken according to the rules for the treatment of diarrhea.Side effects and contraindications for use
Smecta in people of any age and gender can provoke the following: side effects:- Constipation;
- Bloating;
- Vomit;
- Allergic reactions (urticaria, rash, skin itching, Quincke's edema).
Application of Smecta powder contraindicated if a person has the following diseases or conditions:
- Fructose intolerance;
- Glucose-galactose malabsorption syndrome;
- Sucrase-isomaltase deficiency;
- Individual hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Smecta - analogues
On the pharmaceutical market there are drugs synonymous and analogues of Smecta. Synonyms include drugs that, like Smecta, contain dioctahedral smectite as an active substance. And analogues include drugs that are also intestinal sorbents and have the most similar therapeutic activity to Smecta, but contain a different active substance. Smecta: manufacturer, composition, pharmacological action, indications, route of administration and dosage, side effects and contraindications, analogues - video
Photo of packaging
Smecta is a drug against diarrhea based on a substance of natural origin, which additionally performs the functions of an enterosorbent.
The instructions for use contain detailed information about what the medicine helps with.
How to prepare a solution for adults and children (before or after meals) and at what age can it be taken.
What is Smecta?
Recipe in Latin - (Rp.: Pulv. "Smecta").
Smecta is based on natural silicate of aluminum and magnesium, which has the property of not being absorbed into the blood and leaving the human body unchanged, which makes it an unharmed medicine even for children. It has antidiarrheal and enterosorbing properties.
The functions that Smecta performs when it enters the human gastrointestinal tract:
- Protection of the mucous layer of the stomach and intestines from the aggressive effects of hydrochloric acid and bile, thanks to the ability to increase the amount of mucous secretion;
- Absorption of toxic substances, pathogens, liquids;
- Formation of formed stools due to a decrease in the volume of intestinal contents.
One of the main causes of constipation and diarrhea is use of various medications. To improve bowel function after taking medications, you need to do it every day. drink a simple remedy ...
Indications for use
Distinguished by antidiarrheal and enterosorbing properties, Smecta serves as a reason for prescribing both in children (including newborns) and adults in the following conditions:
- The treatment process for chronic, acute diarrhea, the cause of which is poor nutrition, eaten poor-quality, expired food;
- Diarrhea of a medicinal or allergic nature;
- As an aid for infectious diarrhea;
- Symptomatic treatment of unpleasant symptoms arising from indigestion, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: bloating and discomfort in the abdomen, heartburn, vomiting.
Video
Compound
Instructions Antidiarrheal powder in Smecta sachets in light shades from white to grayish-yellow in color, with a not pronounced vanilla odor.
The composition of the medication according to the instructions for one sachet of powder is as follows:
- Active ingredient: dioctahedral smectite;
- Additional ingredients: D-glucose monohydrate, artificial sugar substitute, vanilla or orange flavoring.
Release form
Paper bags laminated with foil and polyethylene containing 3 g of Smecta powder. The suspension prepared from the powder has a vanilla and citrus flavor; in the Russian Federation, it is produced with a “caramel-cocoa” flavor. The cardboard packaging contains instructions for use of the drug and 10, 30 (12 for “caramel-cocoa”) bags of Smecta powder.
Mode of application
Photo of the bag Smecta is used for adults, following the instructions according to the scheme below:
- The daily dosage for adults in sachets is six pieces, taken over three days, after which the amount of Smecta powder is halved (three sachets per day);
- When the reason for using Smecta is not diarrhea, but other indications (allergies, toxicosis, unpleasant symptoms): use three sachets in 24 hours;
The minimum therapeutic course is three days, the further treatment process should not last longer than a week.
To replenish fluid lost by the body during acute diarrhea, treatment with Smecta should be carried out in combination with solutions for rehydration.
How to dilute the powder?
Slowly pour the contents of one sachet of Smecta into 120 ml. liquids (except for water, you can dilute the powder with juice, compote, rehydration solution) and mix thoroughly.
The prescribed dosage in powder for an adult is distributed into 3 doses throughout the day.
For children
The use of Smecta for newborns, infants and older children is justified by its mild and harmless effect on the imperfect digestive tract of babies and the natural origin of the active component. Performing its functions of eliminating diarrhea and removing toxic substances from the body, it does not upset the balance of beneficial microflora in the intestines and is not absorbed into the blood.
Taking Smecta for children, including infants, according to the instructions, is similar to the regimen for adults with the only difference being the dosage of the drug.
| Therapy for acute diarrhea in children (frequent bowel movements more than three times a day) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Children's treatment regimen | First three days | Subsequent use |
| Child under one year old | Two sachets per day | One sachet per day |
| For a child over one year old | Four sachets of powder in 24 hours | Two sachets a day |
| Use for children for other indications | ||
| For babies up to one year old | One sachet per day | |
| One year old and two year old | One or two sachets of powder per day | |
| Children over two | Three sachets of powder per day | |
How to properly breed Smecta?
For newborns, the powder can be dissolved with formula milk or breast milk in a ratio of 50 ml per one sachet of Smecta. Divide the finished solution into several doses used throughout the day. Before use, the medicine, which has stood for some period of time in a diluted form, should be shaken. The instructions do not contain information about how and where the diluted mixture is stored.
Older children are allowed to mix the powder into liquid baby food (porridge, fruit, vegetable puree) or drinks (juice, compote).
During the period of treatment of acute diarrhea, children are allowed to give Smecta as planned (three times a day), or more often and in fractional quantities (several sips per hour), the main thing is that the child takes the necessary amount of medication per day.
For children, it is especially important to combine taking Smecta with replenishing fluid lost by the body through oral rehydration medications.
The safety of the drug does not exempt parents from the need to consult a pediatrician - taking any medications for children must be approved by the attending physician, and the instructions must be read carefully.
Smecta during pregnancy
The instructions for Smecta have no contraindications for the use of the drug by expectant mothers and during lactation (breastfeeding a child). Taking the drug is important for pregnant women with toxicosis, nausea, and heartburn. The use of Smecta does not require amendments to the dosage regimen, and dosages for nursing mothers and women in an interesting position.
Contraindications
Despite the safety of the drug, the instructions for Smecta indicate such patient conditions in which its use is contraindicated:
- Deficiency of sucrose - isomaltose;
- Fructosemia;
- Excessive sensitivity of the body to the components of the drug.
- Intestinal obstruction syndrome;
- Glucose-galactose malabsorption;
Smecta must be taken carefully and under supervision. Recommended for patients suffering from severe chronic constipation, including a history of constipation.
Side effects
Negative reactions when using Smecta occur infrequently. During clinical trials, rare cases of response in the form of constipation were encountered. The phenomenon was mild and disappeared after changing the dosage downward.
At the stage of routine clinical practice, there were cases of individual intolerance to Smecta, manifested by itching, angioedema, and rash.
Alcohol compatibility
Instructions for use of Smecta do not contain information on interaction with alcoholic beverages. But in practice, many take it to avoid a state of severe intoxication, to prevent hangover syndrome, and in case of alcohol poisoning.
Interaction with other drugs
According to the instructions, the use of other medications can be done with an interval of one to two hours between taking Smecta.
How long does it take to work?
The action of Smecta begins after the first dose and has the following data: when treating acute diarrhea, the effect appears after six to twelve hours, in case of poisoning after a couple of hours.
Price
Smecta cost in Russian pharmacies fluctuates between 150 rubles for a package containing 10 sachets of powder, 30 sachets 370-400 rubles, and 350-400 rubles for 12 sachets of “caramel-cocoa” flavor.
Ukraine:
- Smecta No. 10 – 80 – 100 hryvnia;
- No. 30 – 210 -275 hryvnia.
Some pharmacies allow you to purchase Smecta individually; the price for 1 sachet is in the range of 10 UAH. -14 rub. for Ukraine and Russia, respectively.
The price indicated is approximate and may change, so it is advisable to find out exact information about how much the drug costs at the pharmacy in the desired city.
Analogues
Analogs of Smecta can be drugs with an identical active ingredient in the composition, as well as drugs with a similar mechanism of action, the indications for which are treatment or complex therapy for poisoning, diarrhea, heartburn, flatulence, etc.
What can be used as a substitute based on diosmectite:
- Neosmectin;
- Benta;
- Diosmectite;
Based on attapulgite (aluminosilicate of natural origin, with pharmacological properties identical to Smecta):
- Unstoppable;
- Kaopectate;
- Reaban;
They also act as enterosorbents and are used for non-infectious diarrhea:
- Sorbimax;
- Carbolong;
For the treatment of acute infectious diarrhea, it is advisable to use probiotics:
- Bifiform;
- Bioflor;
- Hilak;
Photos of analogues:
Additional data
Manufacturer: France.
Best before date: three years subject to proper storage (temperature no more than 25 degrees Celsius).
Dispensed in pharmacies without a prescription.