A disorder of the internal state of the intestines is provoked by a list of conditions, including: a long course of antibiotics, abdominal surgery, feeding with milk formulas, diarrhea. The occurrence of problems in the gastrointestinal tract is confirmed by stool disorders, nausea, belching, vomiting, and flatulence.
To treat these symptoms, it is necessary to restore the intestinal microflora with the help of pre- and probiotics. The former are often presented in the form of oligosaccharides and are involved in restoring the normal intestinal environment. The latter are divided into lacto- and bifidobacteria, whose functions include the fight against pathogenic organisms, immunostimulation, the formation of digestive enzymes, support for perilstatics and cleansing of the intestinal tract. WITH
The totality of pro- and prebiotics are synbiotics that trigger metabolic processes in the human body.
Characteristics of the drug "Acipol"
"Acipol" includes a complex of heat-treated kefir grains and a microbial mass of living antagonistically active acidophilic lactobacilli, pre-frozen and then vacuum-sublimated in their growing environment. Presented in the form of capsules and suspensions.
Capsules include a dry substance that is light cream or cream in color and has a sour milk smell. The suspension contains Lactobacillus Rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium Longum, as well as zinc citrate.
"Acipol" can be prescribed to children over three months old and adults in parallel with the main list of medications. It has a multifaceted effect: it coordinates the interaction of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, has a positive effect on the condition of the intestines, and strengthens the immune system.
Description of the synbiotic "Maxilak"
This product has a balanced and exceptional composition and allows you to adjust the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract after treatment. “Maxilak” is a combination of 9 of the most necessary harmoniously concentrated probiotic cultures. Beneficial bacteria are included in the preparation in vacuum-dried form. Release form: capsules or sachets with powder for children.
Each capsule, under a gelatin shell, contains a cream-colored mass (from dark to light shades) with blackish inclusions. “Maxilak” does not contain casein or preservatives, which allows it to be taken by people with allergies or lactase deficiency.
The drug is prescribed as a dietary supplement to populate the intestines with probiotics and lactic acid organisms after conditions such as:
- Gastrointestinal disorders during climate change or for prevention;
- Abdominal pain caused by nausea, dyspepsia, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, bloating;
- Susceptibility to infectious diseases during the season of their exacerbation;
- After therapy with drugs that affect microflora.
General characteristics of "Acipol" and "Maxilak"
Both products contain probiotic and prebiotic microorganisms, and, accordingly, are prescribed for the same purpose - to restore the intestinal microflora after a number of disorders. Both of them have two forms of release to choose from, which is convenient for the buyer, one of which is capsules in a gelatin shell. Manufacturers warn that allergy to the constituent components can cause each sample.
Comparative differences
Despite the extensive similarities in bacterial content, there are also significant differences between Acipol and Maxilak.
“Acipol” is intended not only to enrich the gastrointestinal tract with beneficial bacteria, its tasks also include combating a list of intestinal diseases such as dysbacteriosis, acute infections and colitis, rotaviruses. The shelf life is 2 years at a temperature not exceeding 10 degrees. The composition of the drug is more extensive due to excipients: preservatives, flavorings. The dosage for infants from 3 months to 3 years is 1 capsule 2-3 times a day during feeding, and for adults it is 1 capsule 3-4 times a day 30 minutes before meals. For children, the contents must first be dissolved in water. The course lasts 5–8 days. For prevention, Acipol can also be prescribed.
The direction of action of drugs and a review of popular drugs
The purpose of taking these tablets is to relieve the symptoms of the disease and eliminate the cause of its occurrence.
Sulfasalazine
Has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. It is based on the immediate suppression of the focus of pathogenic microorganisms by disrupting the metabolism in their cells.
The active substance does not allow the DNA chain to multiply. Sulfasalazine is indicated for patients over 16 years of age, 1-2 grams 3-4 times a day in the active stage. Next - 500 mg of the substance until the end of the maintenance phase. The medicine has a number of side effects, so it is prescribed only by a specialist.
Mekasol
Also an antimicrobial drug with a wide spectrum of effects. It is produced in the form of tablets that should be consumed an hour before meals 2-4 times a day. If there are no side effects and abnormalities in the liver and kidneys, then the dose is 50 mg per kilogram of the patient’s body weight.
Intestopan
A drug that inhibits the growth of pathogens. Quickly improves the patient's condition, eliminating bloating and relieving intestinal disorders.
At the stage of exacerbation of the disease, take 1-2 tablets 5-6 times a day immediately after meals. The duration of therapy is ten days . Extending the period of use is strictly prohibited.
Mexaza
It has the appearance of pills, prohibited from crushing and chewing. Has enzymatic and antimicrobial effects. Take the medicine with food or immediately before meals.
Take three times a day, one pill at a time. The duration of treatment is a week. In extreme cases, the attending physician may extend the course to four weeks, but under strict monitoring of the patient's vision.
Bifidumbacterin
A drug that populates the intestines with bifidobacteria. The prescription scheme is very simple, so patients often choose to take it. Two capsules of the medicine are taken before meals three times a day, with a couple of sips of water. The duration of therapy is quite long, it is six weeks.
Festal
An enzyme preparation approved for long-term use, up to three months. Prescribe 20 mg of the active substance three times a day after meals. Festal helps improve the digestion of food, preventing it from remaining in the intestinal lumen.
Panzinorm
This is also an enzyme class product. It is taken with every meal. Two tablets - with the main meal and one with a snack. You are allowed to drink up to 15 doses per day.
No-shpa
Antispasmodic. Relaxes the smooth muscles of the intestines, relieving pain. For chronic colitis, take two tablets twice a day; in the acute stage of the disease, it is allowed to increase the number of doses up to three times. Typically the course lasts three days, but if necessary it can be extended to five.
Bellasthesin
Painkiller. Admission - only for therapy in adult patients (over 14 years of age). For any form of the disease, 1 capsule is prescribed three times a day. The maximum course of admission is five days.
pharmachologic effect
It is recommended to take the synbiotic not only when there is an imbalance in the intestinal microflora, but also for preventive purposes.
The drug helps protect the body from bacterial agents in general for the entire body. When used, the immunostimulating effect is intensified.
The lactobacilli contained in the supplement have an inhibitory effect on the development of pathogenic organisms. The product can be taken by people who are intolerant to dairy products or have lactase deficiency.
The synbiotic quickly increases the qualitative composition of the microflora, stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria.
What is Maxilac
Probiotics are microorganisms that, when introduced into the digestive tract, create an ideal qualitative and quantitative balance of beneficial microflora. Over time, they are destroyed, giving way to harmful bacteria and viruses.
To prevent this from happening, prebiotics have been created, which provide nutrition for beneficial microflora, increase their life expectancy and increase activity.
Synbiotics are a new approach to solving the problem. It contains beneficial bacteria and a nutrient medium for them, that is, probiotics and prebiotics at the same time.
This is exactly what Maxilak is, its main properties:
- restores all functions of the digestive organs;
- destroys and stops the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms;
- increases immunity, makes every cell work to protect the body;
- eliminates and prevents diarrhea when taking medications, especially those containing antibiotics;
- helps reduce cholesterol in the blood, stabilizes its normal levels;
- eliminates allergic reactions associated with lactose deficiency.
Maxilak improves the condition of the skin, cleanses it of rashes, tones it, and protects it from damage.
Indications for use
- Immunodeficiency;
- Impaired metabolism;
- Pancreatitis, cholecystitis;
- For intestinal disorders;
- Dysbacteriosis – treatment at various stages;
- Chronic fatigue syndrome;
- Bacterial infections;
- Skin diseases;
- Acclimatization;
- Liver diseases;
- As part of complex therapy in the treatment of various diseases;
- Poisoning (alcohol, medicinal, food);
- Prevention of intestinal infections;
- Functional disorders of the intestine;
- Nausea, vomiting;
- With a sharp change in the usual diet;
- During intense physical activity;
- Allergic reactions;
- After a course of treatment with antibiotics, hormonal drugs or chemotherapy.
Before use, please consult your doctor!
Inexpensive analogues of Maxilak
Currently, there are no exact analogues of Maxilac with the same content of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. But there are many nutritional supplements that are as similar as possible to it in terms of therapeutic effect. The difference is in the qualitative and quantitative composition of probiotics, prebiotics, as well as in the variety of beneficial bacteria.
Lactofiltrum
A combined product that is an absorbent and at the same time aimed at restoring intestinal microflora.
In terms of therapeutic action it is close to Maxilac. Prescribed in the treatment of dysbacteriosis, allergies, poisoning, liver diseases, to increase immunity, and for intestinal infections. Indicated in the treatment of childhood atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma. The Russian dietary supplement aroused great interest at one time. In the course of clinical studies and immunological studies, it was found that Lactofiltrum is able to remove from the body a wide range of allergens, harmful microorganisms, toxins, excess metabolic products and mediators of inflammatory foci 3000 times stronger than activated carbon.
Acipol
Russian drug, produced in different dosages. The product contains kefir grains, which act as a natural antibiotic, and acidophilus bacteria. The food supplement is effective in the treatment of many diseases, increases the body's defenses, and normalizes the absorption of the gastrointestinal tract. Indications – advantage for colitis and dysbacteriosis. It has no contraindications or side effects.
Analogs
The pharmacological industry offers many similar drugs for sale, but they are similar only in their effect on the body. There are no complete synonyms in composition; this medicine is unique. Analogues of Maxilak:
- Linux;
- Acipol;
- Acylact;
- Baktisubtil;
- Bificol;
- Probifor;
- Yogulact;
- Florin;
- Trilact;
- Polybacterin.
Maxilak or Linex
The most famous analogue of Maxilac is Linex, but they are different. The drug in question contains nine cultures of beneficial bacteria, while Linex has only three. This affects the speed and efficiency of intestinal colonization and improvement of microflora - Maxilak does this faster. Linex does not contain oligofructose, which creates optimal conditions for the proliferation of beneficial bacteria. According to doctors, it is better to take Maxilac.
Maxilac
A balanced and combined probiotic of a new generation. The drug contains 9 strains of beneficial bacteria in adjusted concentrations necessary for the human body.
The drug does not contain preservatives and casein, therefore it is hypoallergenic. Approved for use in patients with genetic congenital pathologies: glucose-galactose malabsorption, lactase deficiency.
Available in the form of capsules, ten pieces per package. For children under three years of age, a special form of Maxilac Baby is available - powder for the preparation of an oral solution.
pharmachologic effect
Due to the content of several types of lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and streptococcus, the drug helps to quickly normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. As an adjuvant, it is prescribed during antibiotic treatment or after therapy.
During times of increased risk of infectious pathologies, it is prescribed as a means of normalizing intestinal immunity. It is prescribed as an additional remedy for functional intestinal pathologies.
Maxilak Baby is a synbiotic, as it contains both probiotic and prebiotic components. The prebiotic in the composition are fructo-oligosaccharides, which are necessary to provide nutrition to beneficial microflora.
Mode of application
Prescribed in the form of capsules to children from three years of age. Take one capsule daily with meals. The duration of treatment is up to one month. The decision to shorten or extend the course of treatment is made by the doctor.
The powder for preparing the solution is prescribed to children under three years of age. The powder is diluted in half a glass of water or milk at room temperature. Children from 4 months - one sachet per day. From two years - two sachets per day. The course of treatment is from ten days. If necessary, the doctor can extend treatment with the synbiotic for up to a month.
Which medicine is more effective?
It is difficult to say which is better, since you need to take into account the cause of the malaise. When comparing characteristics, it is recommended to pay attention to the following factors:
- Maxilac contains 9 strains of beneficial bacteria.
- Oligofructose does not give pronounced side effects, like milk sugar, which is present in Linex.
- Maxilak is used in the treatment of the respiratory system, which means it has great effects.
- But the Linex line is much more extensive.
- Maxilac has age restrictions, and Linex is used to treat newborns.
Therefore, Linex is often recommended if dysbiosis has developed in an infant. For adult patients, it may be better to use Maxilac.
Linex
A probiotic preparation containing three types of beneficial bacteria: enterococci, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Available in capsule form, 16 pieces per package. Linex Forte contains only lactobacilli and bifidobacteria without enterococcus, 14 capsules per package.
Contains anhydrous glucose and cellulose. The drug contains oligofructose, so it can also be classified as a synbiotic.
Action of the product
Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are part of the normal human intestinal microflora.
They prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms in the following ways:
- increasing acidity in the intestinal tract;
- producing metabolites that are toxic to pathogenic bacteria;
- producing bacteriocins and substances with antibacterial activity;
- competing with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients.
The drug is prescribed when using antibiotics or other synthetic antimicrobial agents, as well as for bacterial or viral infections of the digestive tract.
Mode of application
Children under two years of age are prescribed one Linex capsule per day. From two to twelve years – one or two capsules per day, depending on the severity of the symptoms of dysbacteriosis. Children and adults over 12 years old – 1 capsule up to three times a day.
To make it easier to take, according to the instructions, the contents of the tablet can be dissolved in a tablespoon of tea or water and given to the child. The resulting solution cannot be stored.
Use of antibiotics
The prescription of antimicrobial agents is very controversial; many doctors have their own point of view on this matter. Sometimes such substances kill beneficial microorganisms, causing dysbiosis and aggravating the picture of colitis.
The intestinal microflora dies, and treatment is delayed . But it happens that without the prescription of antimicrobial drugs, there is no recovery effect.
If spastic colitis is diagnosed, its treatment is better without antibiotics. In other cases, antimicrobial agents are prescribed by the attending physician.
Antibacterial therapy
When the pathogenic environment grows rapidly, it is necessary to resort to antimicrobial drugs. They are taken strictly according to the regimen recommended by the gastroenterologist. Depending on the patient’s condition and the stage of colitis, the doctor chooses the correct technique.
These may be medications from the sulfonamide group. For example, phthalazole or sulgin. They are taken strictly as prescribed by the gastroenterologist according to the following scheme:
- At the stage of intensive treatment of inflammation, the drug is taken six times a day. The number of days is determined by the severity of the disease and the body’s own efforts to recover.
- The second stage is the suppression of residual pathogenic organisms. It lasts two days and is taken four times a day.
- The third stage is consolidation of the effect. Two days are allotted for it, with medications taken three times a day.
Based on the results of a study of the patient’s microflora, the doctor can prescribe an antibacterial drug with a narrow spectrum of action, aimed at destroying a specific type of pathogenic microorganisms.
Antimicrobial drugs with hydroxyquinoline (Intestopan and Enteroseptol) are also common in the practice of colitis. These are more severe drugs; their use is advisable when microorganisms have developed resistance to many antibiotics.
The treatment regimen depends on the stage and advanced stage of the disease. The duration of therapy with medications containing hydroxyquinoline is about ten days.
Similarity of drugs
Linex Forte and Maxilak represent a group of probiotics in combination with prebiotics. They enrich the intestinal microflora with beneficial strains of bacteria and provide nutrients for its reproduction.
Maxilak Baby and Linex are approved for use in childhood, therefore they are prescribed even to newborn children. Both drugs contain strains of bacteria necessary for the intestines , which are destroyed during antibiotic therapy. Another similarity is the possibility of taking both during and after antibiotic therapy.
Which of them, when and for whom is it better to use?
Despite all the pros and cons, Maxilak remains the best in comparison with Hilak Forte. Not only because it is more expensive means better, but because it contains many more useful additives. But you can take both - both are effective.
Since Maxilac is produced only in the form of capsules, it may not be suitable for a preschool child (not all children will be able to take a capsule). In this case, it will be better if the doctor prescribes Hilak Forte. Maxilac can also be purchased in sachet form. Maxilak Baby includes everything the same as a regular one, but the cost starts from 500 rubles .
Also, Maxilac is considered the best drug because it is part of a line of innovative, new supplements.
It should be noted that only a doctor will decide what is best to buy and consume. Therefore, it is recommended that before deciding to take such drugs, go to a therapist.
Medicine and healthComment
Differences
The difference between Linex and Maxilak is in their compositions . Linex contains three beneficial cultures of bacteria, Linex Forte – two. Maxilak contains nine of them. The concentrations of strains in capsules also differ.
Linex differs from Maxilak in the presence of one release form, while Maxilak Baby is more convenient for preparation than dissolving the contents of the capsule.
Linex is produced by a Slovenian pharmaceutical company, Maxilak by the Russian company Segmenta Pharm. For this reason, some experts consider Linex to be a higher quality drug, manufactured in accordance with European standards. The price of Maxilak is from 436 to 448 rubles per package, Linex – from 315 to 764 rubles per package.
What are these drugs used for?
Linex is produced by the Slovenian company Lek. Maxilak is registered as a dietary supplement and is supplied by the Polish company GENEXO. Essentially, both a dietary supplement and a probiotic provide the same effects.
The composition contains microorganisms that are not affected by gastric enzymes. Thus, beneficial bacteria begin to work in the intestinal sections, normalizing the microflora, eliminating the symptoms of the disorder, and suppressing the growth of pathogens.
Both medications are marketed in the form of capsules containing powder. But there is also a difference:
- The Maxilak line includes special sachets intended for the treatment of children.
- Linux is much more diverse. In pharmacies you can find drugs with the prefixes “Forte”, “Bio”, “Gastro”, “Immuno”.
Therefore, before deciding which probiotic to use, it is better to consult your doctor.
What is better to choose
The choice of drug depends on the manifestation of dysbacteriosis. In the presence of pronounced symptoms of dysbiosis, a combination of Maxilac with symptomatic therapy is recommended: sorbents, antacids, proton pump inhibitors.
If no pronounced symptoms are observed, the choice can be made in favor of Linex. However, the cost of the drug is higher than that of Maxilac, therefore, according to patient reviews, Maxilac is better after antibiotics due to its affordable price and wide spectrum of action.
In each individual case, depending on the symptoms and the chosen antibiotic, the doctor can not only compare Linex and Maxilac in terms of their effectiveness, but also select another analogue:
- Bifidumbacterin;
- Acipol;
- Hilak or Hilak Forte;
- Bifiform;
- Lactiale;
- Normospectrum.
If symptoms of dysbacteriosis do not disappear within two days after starting to use Linex or Maxilak, you should consult your doctor. He will conduct additional diagnostics, adjust the treatment regimen or prescribe another drug.
Where can I buy?
You can purchase Maxilac and Linex at a pharmacy kiosk or through the Internet, since medications are dispensed without presenting a prescription sheet.
With the development of dysbiosis, bowel movement disorders, and infectious processes, probiotics are prescribed. Linex and Maxilak have the same qualities, but when using the drug, the difference in composition, the risks of allergic reactions, and age category should be taken into account. Therefore, you don’t need to decide on your own which is better. Trust the choice to your doctor.
Daria Shirochina
Practitioner. She graduated with honors from Vitebsk State Medical University in 2012 with a degree in general medicine. She was awarded a certificate of honor for her achievements in her work.
