Probiotics are live bacteria - microorganisms that live in the human body and positively affect its vital activity. Probiotic preparations contain various strains of bacteria.

There are bifid-containing, coli-containing, lacto-containing preparations. Also, the composition may contain yeast-like fungi, enterococci, aerococci, depending on the manufacturer and purpose. Probiotics are available in liquid and dry form.

Probiotics not only allow you to populate the intestines with the right microorganisms and overcome the pathogenic flora that causes various unpleasant symptoms, but also make it possible to increase immunity and effectively fight ailments. In this article, we look at inexpensive yet effective probiotics for the gut. Reviews, as well as a list of drugs with prices, you will find below.

When are probiotics given?

According to the American Gastroenterological Association, probiotics are currently most commonly prescribed in the treatment of the following diseases and conditions:

1. infectious diarrhea caused by rotavirus infection, including in infants and young children - strains of lactobacilli species Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei.
2. - probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum and fungi Sacchromyces boulardii, as well as a combination of probiotics can help with bowel movements.
3. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea- Saccharomyces boulardii can prevent recurrence of the most dangerous and most common antibiotic-associated diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile.

In addition, a gastroenterologist can prescribe probiotics for patient complaints of stool disorders, colic and frequent bloating and flatulence, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, as well as other conditions.

How to take it right?

It is very important to choose the right probiotic for the treatment of a particular condition. To select a probiotic, you can use the following simple rules:

1. If you suspect a bacterial infection of the intestine(acute or chronic), it is recommended to take complex preparations containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria at the same time (for example, Bacteriobalance, Bifidin, Linex, etc.).
2. If you suspect a viral infection of the intestine(acute or chronic), it is recommended to take drugs containing lactobacilli (for example, Lactobacterin, Narine, Biobacton, Primadophilus, etc.).
3. If you suspect a fungal infection of the intestine and genital organs (candidiasis of the intestine and vagina), it is recommended to take preparations containing bifidobacteria (for example, Probiform, Biovestin, Bifidumbacterin, etc.).

During therapy, it is recommended to first drink preparations with lactobacilli, then with bifidobacteria, and only after that with colibacilli (for example, Colibacterin). You can start taking immediately complex preparations that simultaneously contain bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What's the Difference?

The names of these two groups of drugs are very similar, so they are often confused.

• Probiotics are live microorganisms that belong to the normal intestinal microflora.
• Prebiotics are organic chemicals that have the ability to create excellent conditions for the reproduction of normal intestinal microflora.

It should be noted that the action of both prebiotics and probiotics is similar, because each of the groups of these agents normalizes the intestinal microflora.

Beneficial features

Most probiotic bacteria belong to two genera: lactobacilli (lat. Lactobacillus) and bifidobacteria (lat. Bifidobacterium), although you need to know that there are many other types of probiotic bacteria.

These drugs are capable of:

1. Produce substances that prevent various infections.
2. Prevent bacteria harmful to humans from attaching to the intestinal wall and inhibit their growth.
3. Inhibit the secretion or destroy toxins produced by some “bad” bacteria for the human body.
4. Stimulate the strengthening of the mucous layer in the intestines as a barrier against infections.
5. Increase the efficiency of the immune system by secreting antibodies to certain viruses.
6. Produce B vitamins necessary for food metabolism, preventing anemia that occurs when there is a lack of vitamins
7. B6 and B12, as well as maintaining the health of the skin and nervous system.

The described effects are more or less characteristic of all microorganisms related to probiotics. However, the mechanisms of these effects have not yet been fully elucidated.

Probiotics for the intestines: list and prices

To maintain intestinal health, the following drugs may be prescribed:

• Linex is one of the most famous probiotics that are common in Russia. It contains three components of the microflora, which are located in different parts of the intestine. Price 350-500 rubles.
• . It is often used in pediatrics for conditions characteristic of a violation of the colonization of the intestine by flora, in combination with antibiotics and other drugs. It contains Bifidobacterium bifidum N1 in dry powder form. Price 350-400 rubles.
• More concentrated bifidobacteria are contained in Probifor - one sachet contains about 10 servings of bacteria that are in Bifidumbacterin. Price 500-600 rubles.
• . In addition to probiotic strains of lacto- and bifidobacteria, it contains Escherichia coli. Combined with antibiotic therapy, thanks to the protective capsule, it easily overcomes the acidic environment of the stomach. It is one of the best encapsulated probiotics for adults. Price 350-400 rubles.
• Florin forte. It is a powder containing lacto- and bifidobacteria. It is prescribed for both adults and children and newborns. Due to the combination of bacteria, it has a complex effect, but it does not combine well with some antibiotics. Price 500-550 rubles.

Depending on the time of creation and improvement, several generations of probiotics are distinguished:

• I generation - classic monocomponent preparations, consisting of one strain of microorganisms - typical inhabitants of the intestine (bifidumbacterin, lactobacterin, etc.);
• II generation - self-eliminating antagonists (bactisubtil, enterol, biosporin, etc.);
• III generation - multicomponent preparations (symbiotics), consisting of several (from 2 to 30) bacterial strains (bifilong, etc.) or several types of bacteria (linex, bifikol, etc.);
• IV generation - combined preparations (synbiotics), consisting of a strain of bacteria and ingredients that promote their growth, reproduction and metabolic activity (bifilis, kipacid, etc.);
• V generation - multicomponent combined preparations (synbiotics), consisting of several types of bacteria and ingredients that promote their growth, reproduction and metabolic activity (floristin, bifiform, etc.).

In addition, the form of the probiotic must be considered. All of them are divided into:

• Dry probiotics(lactobacterin, bifidumbacterin, colibacterin, etc.);
• Liquid forms (biovestin, biovestin-lacto, floristin, trilact, bifidum No. 791 BAG, liquid bifido- and lactobacterins, lactoflor, etc.);
• Sorption forms s (ecoflor, probifor, bifidobacterin forte, bifikol forte, etc.);
• Enteric coated capsules(linex, bifiform).

And if earlier liquid probiotics for the intestines were considered the best, today capsule preparations are increasingly common. Modern technologies allow you to effectively store all the necessary bacteria in the capsule. Those who take probiotics unanimously declare that it is much more convenient to drink drugs in capsules, like a vitamin: I took it out of the package, washed it down with water and forgot ...

Probiotics in foods

Sources of prebiotics are: dairy products, bread, cereals, peas, corn flakes, garlic, bananas, onions, beans and some other types of foods. One of the most popular foods that provide probiotic intake is yogurt.

In addition, their sources are: most dairy products, such as cheese, kefir, cottage cheese, buttermilk. There are several other examples of probiotics: sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, bread, wine, soy sauce.

Probiotics are prescribed not only for intestinal diseases, but also after systemic use of antibiotics. This is a large group of drugs, drugs are used for several weeks, months. Why does not always taking probiotics bring results, despite the high efficiency and duration of use? Wrong dose or bad probiotic? In this article, you can find answers to these questions, as well as see an overview of common dosage forms.

After birth, the baby's intestines become colonized with bacteria. This is a person's own microflora, among which there are beneficial microorganisms that help in the digestion of food, and pathogenic ones. If the patient is healthy, the first group prevails, giving no chance for harmful microbes to multiply. In some cases, after taking antibiotics, with constipation, poisoning, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), their number decreases, pathogenic bacteria grow intensified, causing symptoms of the disease. After the treatment of the underlying disease, the main task is to restore normal biocenosis, in connection with which probiotics are taken for the intestinal microflora.

The probiotic in its composition has live bifido- or lactobacilli, which, when it enters the gastrointestinal tract, perform several functions:

1. Inhibit the reproduction of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms.

2. In the course of their life activity, they secrete a growth stimulating factor, which accelerates the settlement of their own flora.

3. Stimulate local and general immune defense mechanisms.

4. Fight reinfection.

5. Have an anti-cancer effect.

6. Normalize intestinal motility, the work of glands, enzymes.

7. Create a special environment in which it is difficult for harmful bacteria to grow.

Main indications

Probiotics for the intestines are prescribed in many cases, but it is better to find out for yourself whether they are really necessary. The list of indications includes:

1. Diarrhea that occurs after prolonged use of antibiotics.

2. Intestinal infections weaken the body's defenses, a probiotic is needed to restore them, to a greater extent this applies to conditions of viral etiology.

3. After treatment of gastritis associated with Helicobacter pylori.

4. Oral antibiotics, even in case of pneumonia or tonsillitis.

5. With IBS, the effect of a probiotic on bowel function is only positive, it helps with both diarrhea and constipation.

6. The presence of food allergies.

7. Lacto-, bifidobacteria are used in the treatment of helminthiases.

Individual intolerance can serve as a contraindication, when a person has an allergy to one of the components. In this case, you should not completely abandon the probiotic, the doctor will help you make a blacklist of the names of drugs that include this substance. The patient is recommended a drug from another group.

Selection rules

To be on the white list of allowed probiotics, they must be:

• Safe. With prolonged use, do not harm the body, do not impair the functioning of the liver and kidneys.
• Active. If the bacteria remain alive until the end of the probiotic storage, this is an indicator of quality.
• Resistant to the action of hydrochloric acid, bile.
• Able to populate the intestines, multiply rapidly.
• Be of natural origin.

Bacteria can enter the intestines with food or in the form of drugs. The source of living microorganisms is dairy products fermented with bifido-, lactobacilli. It comes in the form of starters, yoghurts, kefir, even baby food. Regular use leads to the normalization of the stool, the disappearance of constipation, bloating, pain.

But it is better to use homemade products. Store-bought products can be pasteurized, which kills beneficial bacteria. Dyes, flavorings also reduce the number of colony forming units. Because the quality of yogurt is questionable. At home, it is easy to prepare a more healthy and tasty analogue. Firstly, the portion size can be adjusted, you can always have a fresh product. Secondly, natural additives in the form of berries, fruits, jams do not affect the viability of bacteria.

Generations of drugs

Depending on the composition, all drugs are divided into 5 generations.

1st generation - monocomponent, that is, only one strain of bacteria is present in the probiotic. By name, in most cases, one can judge the active substance: Lactobacterin, Colibacterin, Bifidumbacterin.

2nd generation - yeast-like fungi and bacterial spores. These microorganisms do not belong to the normal intestinal flora, but they have a positive effect on it. They are used in children with diarrhea, intestinal infections. The list of probiotics in this group includes: Sporobacterin, Enterol, Biosporin, Eubicor.

3rd generation - Probiotics are made up of several strains or species of bacteria. The most popular representatives are Linex, Bifilong, Bifikol.

4th generation - well-studied means in which special substances are added to bacteria, which accelerate their growth, reproduction, activity (Bifiliz).

5th generation - new, more advanced probiotics are released every day (Probiform, Floristin, Bifidumbacterin forte).

Common drugs

A brief overview of the most common probiotics will help you choose the right medicine depending on the cause of the disease.

1. Linex.

Probiotics are available in capsules and powder. This is a combined remedy, the composition includes lacto-, bifidobacteria, enterococcus, as well as excipients. Linex normalizes motility, relieves constipation or diarrhea, increases intestinal acidity, making the growth of pathogenic bacteria impossible. It is allowed for pregnant women, children, even newborns, but in these cases it is prescribed by a doctor. It is difficult for a small child to swallow a capsule, therefore a powder is used, it is first dissolved in juice, milk.

2. Bifiform.

These probiotics contain several types of microorganisms, indicated for diarrhea, poisoning, IBS, gastroenteritis. Dosage forms:

• Capsules. They are acid-resistant, thanks to which the bacteria do not die under the influence of gastric juice, they enter the intestines as actively as possible. Can be given to a child over 2 years old.
• Drops are used even in infants.
• Probiotic powders are flavored and well tolerated by children.

3. Hilak forte.

It is used after antibiotic treatment, with intoxication, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, atrophic enteritis. Release form - drops. Well tolerated, allergic reactions are rare. The drug helps to restore the intestinal epithelium, kills harmful microbes due to a change in acidity.

4. Lactobacterin.

Produced as a dry powder in ampoules, before use, one dose is diluted in a teaspoon of water. This is a monocomponent remedy, its effectiveness has been proven in serious organic pathologies of the intestine: ulcerative colitis, enteritis. Also used in gynecology. The name of the probiotic corresponds to the main active ingredient - lactobacilli.

5. Primadophilus.

It is the best probiotic for patients suffering from allergic diseases. It is well studied, indicated for food allergies, atopic dermatitis, frequent stomatitis, gingivitis. For children, it is available in powder form.

6. Enterol.

This antagonistic agent inhibits the reproduction of pathogenic flora, activates local defenses in the intestine, and helps restore the mucosa. It has a good effect in infectious diarrhea, IBS, which is accompanied by diarrhea, candidiasis. Capsules are consumed after meals, the powder must be dissolved in water. It is not recommended to use too hot or cold food.

7. Probifor.

Contains the highest number of colony forming units of all probiotics. It has a pronounced antimicrobial effect. Clinical studies have shown that the use of Probifor equates to the effect of antibacterial agents in shigellosis. Antimicrobial, antitoxic action helps fight diarrhea of ​​various origins. The drug is recommended after radiation or chemotherapy. Bifidobacteria, which are part of it, improve digestion, enzyme activity, and the production of vitamins. Food does not affect the properties of Probifor, so taking a probiotic does not depend on food. The powder or capsule should be taken with water. Suitable for children from 6 months.

8. Yogurt.

The active ingredient is lactobacilli. When they enter the gastrointestinal tract, they negatively affect E. coli, Proteus, staphylococci, yeast fungi. They have an immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effect, prevent the absorption of toxins, waste products of bacteria into the blood. Probiotics are used for constipation, diarrhea, in the complex treatment of allergies, helminthiasis. These are pretty strong drugs. It has been proven that all sticks remain alive after being in the stomach for 3 hours, they also tolerate a solution of 1% bile without problems.

Choosing a remedy for children

In childhood, the list of drugs for the intestines is somewhat different from adults. Many companies are simultaneously producing probiotics for babies. The main difference is the dosage form. Babies will not swallow the capsule, because there are powders and drops.

Immediately after birth, the baby's intestines can be affected by Klebsiella, Staphylococcus aureus. The use of Linex, Bifidumbacterin forte, Lactobacterin for 28 days is shown. Prebiotic Probifor has a shorter course of treatment - 10 days. But it is categorically impossible to choose a remedy on your own, only a doctor will do it.

Probiotics (eubiotics) are live microorganisms that are normal flora of the human intestinal tract. These are non-pathogenic, that is, beneficial bacteria, yeast, which have resistance to opportunistic or pathogenic microorganisms. They perform a lot of useful functions in the intestinal tract, produce biotin, folic acid, vitamin K, ensure the restoration of normal microflora in the mucous membranes of the human body and in the gastrointestinal tract, strengthen the immune system, and protect against exposure to toxic substances.

Therefore, a change in the qualitative and quantitative composition of microbiocenosis in the intestine, imbalance, dysbiosis, lead to various serious diseases in children and adults. With such clinical syndromes as antibiotic-associated diarrhea, as well as with, the effect of the use of probiotics, analogues has been proven). However, according to the US Gastroenterological Association, today there are not enough scientific studies and data confirming which probiotic from the list of drugs in this group is most appropriate to use in the treatment of specific diseases or conditions of the body.

Today, probiotics for children are used mainly for the following conditions and diseases:

• Diarrhea caused by taking antibiotics - in this case, one of the best probiotic preparations is considered. The Saccharomyces boulardii contained in it stops antibiotic-associated diarrhea and prevents relapses.
• Diarrhea caused by infections, primarily in children with rotavirus infection, in this case, the use of lactobacilli Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus is most preferable.
• - in this case, combined probiotics, as well as monocomponent lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, help to normalize bowel movements.

Classification of probiotics for children and adults

There are several generations of drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora:

• 1 generation - these are monocomponent preparations that contain only 1 strain of bacteria - colibacterin, lactobacterin, bifidumbacterin
• 2nd generation - self-eliminating antagonists - sporobacterin, biosporin, bactisubtil
• 3rd generation - multicomponent preparations that include a combination of several strains of bacteria and additives - Lineks, analogues, Bifiliz, Atsilakt, etc.
• 4th generation - adsorbed bifido-containing probiotics, these are living bacteria of normal flora immobilized on a sorbent - Probifor, Bifidumbacterin Forte, Florin Forte.

Probiotics are also classified according to the type of bacteria they contain. Almost all probiotics are produced in Russia, with the exception of foreign analogues Linex, Enterol, Bifiform.

Unfortunately, almost 20% of the tested expensive dietary supplements do not contain the number of useful, living microorganisms declared on the label, some industrial strains are not capable of long-term colonization in the large intestine, since they are not adapted to the human body. A big disadvantage of imported probiotics is the presence in them of bacterial strains that are not adapted for the population of people living in Russia and Ukraine.

Probiotics
Bifid-containing	Bifiform, Bifidumbacterin (powder, dry, forte), Bifikol, Bifiliz, Probifor
Koli-containing	Bificol, Colibacterin, Bioflor
lactose-containing	analogues of Linex - Acipol, Lactobacterin, Atsilakt, Biobakton, cheaper Gastrofarm (50-100 rubles)
Yeast-like fungi, genus Bacillus, Aerococcus and Saccharomycete	Enterol, Baktisubtil, Sporobacterin, Baktisporin, Biosporin
Enterococci	Enterococci contain only domestic dietary supplements that are not drugs, as well as imported probiotics Bifiform and Linex
Prebiotics
Prebiotics	In the treatment of various pathologies of the intestinal flora, prebiotics are often used in probiotic correction schemes, as additional therapy - Lactulose and its analogues (see), Lysozyme, inulin preparations, pantothenic acid, etc.
dietary supplement
Russian	Dietary supplements are not intended for treatment, but are used for healing by correcting the intestinal microflora. Among them, cheaper ones can be distinguished - Normoflorin V and L (180-200 rubles), Yogulact forte (140-250 rubles), Euflorin, Polybacterin, liquid concentrates of bifidobacteria, Bifacil, Biovestin (440 rubles) Biovestin lacto (450-500 rubles) , Laminolact (550-600 rubles)
Imported	Probionix, Primadofilus, Acidophilus, Normobact (250-300 rubles) Flora dofilus, Rela life (600 rubles) Rioflora ballance (180-350 rubles), Symbiolact comp. (450-1000 rubles), Ecofemin Balance of microflora (400 rubles)
Special dietary supplements for children	Children's forms of probiotics - dietary supplements have special formulas: Primadophilus - Junior (250 rubles), Bifidus (700 rubles), Children's (300 rubles). Among Russian-made dietary supplements, Bifidumbacterins-multi for children of 3 age groups can be distinguished.

Even the best probiotic with illiterate use can provoke quite serious complications, such as urolithiasis, cholelithiasis, allergic reactions, obesity, cytokine imbalance. Any drug should be used only on the advice of a doctor.

Probiotics - 1st generation drug list

With dysbacteriosis of the 1st degree in a child, bifidumbacterin and lactobacterin can be used to correct the microflora and prevent diseases. However, in acute intestinal infections, these probiotics should be combined with sorbents and other biological products. A drug such as Colibacterin is usually used for torpid colitis, so it is practically not used to treat children.

Before use, dry preparations are dissolved in boiled cool water 1 dose -1 teaspoon of water, the prepared solution is taken immediately half an hour before meals 2-3 r / day.

Bifidumbacterin dry Release form: tablets. capsules, lyophilisate for solution preparation. Ingredients: Live bifidobacteria bifidum Manufacturer - Russia Price 70-90 rubles	Manufacturer - Russia Price: an average of 90-120 rubles.	Release form: lyophilisate for solution preparation Ingredients: live bacteria of Escherichia coli strain M17 dried in a cultivation medium, with the addition of a gelatin-sucrose protective mixture

It is logical to add Biobacton and its analogues to this list of monopreparations, since it includes only acidophilus bacillus, which is active against conditionally pathogenic and pathogenic microorganisms. Although chronologically, Biobacton cannot belong to the 1st generation of probiotics, it is a more modern drug. It is recommended for the treatment of children from birth with viral and bacterial intestinal infections, while taking antibiotics.

Biobacton dry Release form: lyophilisate for solution preparation Ingredients: Lactobacillus acidophilus Manufacturer - Russia	Release form: capsules Other complex forms of Narine are also produced (Narine Forte, Narine milk concentrate) Ingredients: dietary supplement acidophilic form of lactobacterin Producer - Armenia Price: 150 rubles	Primadophilus capsules Release form: capsules There are other complex forms of Primadophilus Ingredients: This is a dietary supplement, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus Manufacturer - USA Price: 90 capsules 600-650 rubles.

2nd generation probiotics for children

The composition of probiotics of the 2nd generation includes yeast-like fungi and spores of bacilli. And although spore bacilli and fungi are not an integral part of the microflora, however, when they enter the gastrointestinal tract, they are able to perform the functions of beneficial bacteria - they suppress pathogenic microorganisms. Self-eliminating antagonists are recommended for children with acute non-infectious diarrhea, as well as with mild forms of intestinal infections and with subcompensated dysbacteriosis. The course of treatment should not be more than 5-7 days, in the future, probiotics from normal microflora should be added to therapy.

• Flonivin BS, Bactisubtil - they contain spores of the B. cereus IP 5832 bacillus, which are able to exhibit broad spectrum antibacterial properties, providing antidiarrheal and antimicrobial effects. These spores are quite resistant to the effects of gastric juice, and their transition to vegetative forms is carried out in the intestine, restoring its microflora.
• Sporobacterin and bactisporin - contain Bacillus subtilis 3H, a live antagonistically active strain selected for the property of chromosomal resistance to the antibiotic - rimfapicin.
• Enterol - contains yeast-like fungi Saccharomycetes, it is indicated for the treatment of diarrhea while taking antibiotics, since its activity against clostridium has been proven
• Biosporin is a spore drug that combines lichieniform bacilli
• Eubicor is a modern dietary supplement, which contains dietary fiber, inactivated yeast culture, enriched with vitamins and minerals.

Release form: capsules Composition: B.cereus IP 5832 freeze-dried spores Manufacturer - France Price: 20 caps. 420-500 rub.	Release form: suspension, lyophilizate Ingredients: live active strain of Bacillus subtilis, resistant to the antibiotic - rimfapicin Manufacturer - Russia Price: 250-300 rubles.	Release form: tablets and lyophilisate Composition: aerobic saprophytes of the genus Bacillus (dried strains): B. Subtilis and B. Licheniformis. Manufacturer - Russia Price: 200 rubles.

3rd generation probiotics - analogues of Linex

The list of 3rd generation probiotics is a combined preparation, that is, they can consist of several symbiotic strains of the same type of bacteria - Acipol, Acilact, or different types - Linex, Bifiform. In this case, the action of bacteria is enhanced, moreover, other active substances are added to many combined preparations that can also enhance the effectiveness of the probiotic.

For example, kefir fungus polysaccharide is added to Acipol, lysozyme or lactose monosaccharide is added to Bifiliz, and lactulose is added to Bifiform. Such drugs are used to treat moderate acute intestinal infections, in severe forms they are used as part of complex therapy.

Release form: capsules for children Linex Sachet (BAA), Linex Baby powder, Linex capsules Composition: bifidobacteria, enterococci, lactobacilli Producer - Slovenia Price: capsules 16 pcs. 250 rubles, Baby powder 300 rubles, Linex for children Sachet 10 pcs. 370 rub. Linex immuno 30 caps. 500 rub.	Release form: Baby drops, Kids chewable tablets, Kompeks, Toddler Ingredients: Baby - bifidobacteria, enterococci, Kids and Malysh - additionally vitamin B1, B6, Complex - also inulin plant fibers Manufacturer - Denmark Price: Baby drops 400 rubles. Bifiform Kids, Kid 350 rubles, Bifiform capsules 30 pcs 300 rubles.	Release form: rectal suppositories, lyophilisate for suspension Ingredients: Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lysozyme Manufacturer - Russia Price 400-560 rubles.

Release form: capsules, tablets, lyophilisate Ingredients: kefir fungi and acidophilic lactobacilli Manufacturer - Russia Price: 250-280 rubles.	Release form: tablets, lyophilisate for suspension preparation, suppositories Ingredients: Lactobacillus acidophilus Manufacturer - Russia Price: 10 bottles of 5 doses 330 rubles.

4th generation probiotics

These drugs include Probiform, Florin Forte and Bifidumbacterin forte. Their difference is that these are sorbed probiotics, which include bifidobacteria immobilized on particles of activated crushed carbon, they have a stronger protective effect than conventional analogues.

Bifidumbacterin forte is actively used in ARVI, having a detoxifying effect, in various gastroenterological diseases, in dysbacteriosis of varying severity. However, it is contraindicated in children with, and is also not used for gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus infection.

Probifor is considered a very effective antidiarrheal and detoxifying agent, the best probiotic. This is an enhanced form, since the number of bifidobacteria in it is much larger (10 times) than in Bifidumbacterin forte.

It is used even in severe forms of acute intestinal infection as the only drug of etiotropic therapy, as well as in dysbacteriosis, in diseases of the colon. Studies conducted to determine its effectiveness in shigellosis have shown that its effect is comparable to the effect of the use of fluoroquinolones (antibiotics), only without side effects. Probifor stops diarrhea in patients in intensive care units as effectively as the combined use of Enterol and Bifiliz for 2-3 days.

Release form: powder, capsules Composition: Bifidobacterium bifidum adsorbed on activated carbon Manufacturer - Russia Price: powder 6 pcs 350 rub. 10 pieces 500 rubles, 30 pieces 1400 rubles. capsules 10 pcs 530 rub.	Release form: capsules, powder Composition: bifidobacteria adsorbed on activated carbon particles Manufacturer - Russia Price: powder 10 pcs. 120 rubles, 30 pcs. 340 rubles, capsules 10 pcs. 140 rubles, 30 pcs. 330 rub.	Release form: powder Ingredients: bifidobacteria adsorbed on carbon, lactobacilli Manufacturer - Russia Price: powder 10 pcs. 140 rubles, 30 pcs. 450-550 rub.

Synbiotics - combined preparations

Synbiotics are combined dietary supplements that contain both probiotics and prebiotics. One of these means is - dietary supplement Maxilak. It contains a prebiotic component - oligofructose and 9 cultures of beneficial bacteria. Beneficial bacteria include:

• 1 stepococcus, 1 lactococcus
• 3 cultures of bifidobacteria
• 4 cultures of lactobacilli

Of the 9 beneficial bacteria, 7 cultures make up the "normal" microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, performing all the functions of the gut's own intestinal microflora. The rest of the cultures that make up Maxilac are not natural inhabitants of the microflora of the human large and small intestines, but they effectively affect many diseases of both the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory and immune systems.

• Manufacturer: Poland
• Price 10 caps. 300-360 rub.

Treatment of children with probiotics - which drug to choose?

What is the best probiotic for a child? The choice of the best probiotic for the treatment of children in each specific clinical case with various nosological diseases is not an easy task for the doctor. In childhood, it is very important to rationally use probiotics and the choice from the list of drugs depends on the type of lesion, the severity of the disease and the degree of disturbance of the intestinal microflora.

Probiotics for newborns. For newborns, premature babies, infants up to a year old, for the treatment of intestinal dysbacteriosis (restoration of intestinal microflora after), the cessation of diarrhea, a general improvement in physical condition and development, the following drugs are recommended:

• Linex, Acipol, Lactobacterin, Bifidumbacterin forte - 14-28 days
• Probifor - course of therapy 7-10 days
• Bifiliz - 7-14 days

Respiratory diseases- SARS, infectious mononucleosis in children, pneumonia, bronchitis, false croup () - the same drugs in short courses, no more than 5 days.

Viral hepatitis- increased doses of 5-10 powders of Bifidumbacterin forte 3-6 r / day or 1 powder of Probifor 2-3 r / day in a course of 5-7 days.

allergic reactions, dermatoses in children - Acylact, Lactobacterin, Bifidumbacterin forte 2-3 weeks or Probifor 5-7 days

Diabetes in a child- long-term use up to 6 weeks and repeated courses with any probiotics of different generations are recommended.

Prevention of infectious diseases in children- 2-3 times during the year to conduct seasonal courses - Bifiliz, Bifidumbacterin forte.

Correction of intestinal dysbacteriosis with probiotics is made taking into account the degree of its severity (1-3 degrees). In clinical practice, when choosing a probiotic for the treatment of children, the following rules are recommended:

• With a lack of lactobacilli in the analysis for dysbacteriosis, it is not necessary to prescribe lactobacilli. When correcting dysbiosis, preference is always given to bifid-containing drugs, since the basis of the microflora of the large intestine is bifidobacteria and they restore such disorders.
• Monopreparations containing only 1 type of bacteria Lactobactrin and Bifidumbacterin are indicated only for mild forms of intestinal infections and 1 degree of dysbacteriosis. At 2-3 degrees of dysbacteriosis, drugs of the 3rd and 4th generation are recommended - Probifor, Bifiform, Bifidumbacterin forte. In severe colitis, infectious enterocolitis, Probifor is indicated, an alternative may be the simultaneous administration of Enterol + Bifiliz or large doses of Bifidumbacterin forte.
• Probiotics for children with lactobacilli are best used in conjunction with bifidus, which suppress diaphoretic microorganisms and protect the colonic mucosa.
• With ulcerative lesions of the stomach and duodenum, with acute gastroenteritis of infectious etiology, with a deficiency of lactobacilli in the proximal gastrointestinal tract, lacto-containing probiotics are prescribed - Gastrofarm, Acipol, Lactobacterin, Acylact, Biobacton, Linex.
• Koli-containing probiotics - a list of these drugs Bioflor, Colibacterin, Bifikol for the treatment of children are used with caution, only for strict indications.
• Duration of therapy with probiotics of the 1st generation - 4 weeks, 2nd generation - 5-10 days in the future, taking lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, 3-4th generation - no more than 5-7 days with acute food intoxications and intestinal infections.
• If taking drugs from the list of probiotics does not lead to an effect, it is necessary to change the tactics of treatment, it is possible to prescribe prebiotics, intestinal antiseptics, bacteriophages.

Research by specialists has proven that the use of probiotics in other pathologies of extraintestinal localization also has an effect on therapy, since probiotics have the property of improving metabolism and immunomodulatory effects.

what is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics

Hello dear readers! Medicines that restore the intestinal microflora have already firmly entered our lives. The terms "probiotics and prebiotics" are known to many, but few people thought about the difference in these medicines. At the same time, they affect our body differently. Let's figure out what the difference is: probiotics and prebiotics, and whether there are fundamental differences between these medicines.

The drugs appeared a long time ago, but only in 2002, doctors were able to identify the difference between these two groups.

First, let's define what a probiotic is. This is the name of a medicine or a product that contains microorganisms beneficial to humans that restore the intestinal microflora. At the same time, they have a detrimental effect on pathogenic bacteria in the body.

In total, probiotics today include 7 types of beneficial microbes (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, E. coli, propinobacteria, enterococci, lactic streptococcus, yeast fungi). In medicines, they appear alone or in various combinations. And also a large number of them are contained in some.

Now let's figure out what a prebiotic is. Prebiotics are chemical compounds that are not able to be absorbed in the small intestine, but at the same time they create good conditions for the formation of beneficial microflora. They are digested, not destroyed in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Example: Inulin, lactulose, dietary fiber, oligofructose.

Such a comparison can be made. The difference between them is that a probiotic is a live beneficial bacterium, while a prebiotic is a chemical compound that is necessary to create good conditions for the growth of this beneficial bacterium.

So now, knowing what difference exists between these medicines, you will not indiscriminately purchase them at a pharmacy, but at least think about what benefits this or that drug will bring to your body.

List of probiotics and prebiotics

There is a classification of drugs according to different criteria:

• composition: pure and combined with sorbents;
• by state of aggregation: liquid and dry;
• by type of bacteria: lactic acid, donor and antagonists;
• by the number of bacterial species: monocomponent, polycomponent, combined, sorption, recombinant;
• according to the generic affiliation of microorganisms: containing bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, E. coli, bacilli.

Only a doctor can figure out which drug should be used to treat a particular disease. So do not be amateur, otherwise your bacteria may “quarrel”.

The following list presents you with the best drugs that doctors today prescribe for the intestines. Let's separate them into groups.

Monocomponent probiotics

Monocomponent (containing one type of bacteria) include:

• bifidobacteria: Bifidumbacterin, Biovestin, Bifiform, Bifinorm, Probiform, Euflorin - B;
• lactobacilli: Acylact, Biobacton, Lactobacterin, Narine, Regulin, Rela life, Euflorin L;
• colibacillus: colibacterin;
• bacilli: Baktisporin, Baktisubtil, Biosporin, Sporobacterin, Flonivin BS.

Symbiotics

Preparations with several types of microorganisms are called si m biotics (not to be confused with the concept of "si n biotics" - they will be discussed a little later in the article). Let's name only the most popular:

• Acipol (kefir fungi with lactobacilli);
• Bifiform (bifidobacteria with enterococci);
• Linex (bifidobacteria with lactobacilli and enterococci);
• Bifiform baby (a drug for children, including bifidobacteria with lactic streptococci);
• Yogulact (lactic acid microorganisms with lactobacilli);
• Enterol (saccharomycetes).

Combined Probiotics

There are also combined probiotics, which also include sorbents:

• Bifidumbacterin forte (except bifidobacteria, includes activated charcoal);
• Bificol forte (bifidobacteria with E. coli and sorbent);
• Probiofor (composition is similar to Bifidumbacterin forte).

What is the best drug?

It is difficult to advise which good probiotic to choose. Most often, patients and doctors choose between Hilak forte, Linex and Bifiform. But is it even legal to put these medicines in the same row?

Bifiform includes only 2 types of bacteria, Linex - three. Hilak forte does belong to prebiotics and is an aqueous solution of those waste products that, under normal conditions, should produce beneficial microorganisms.

If Linex to some extent can replace Bifiform, then Hilak forte will not replace any of them, but will only create favorable conditions for the further development of bacteria that have entered the intestine from the probiotic.

The term "best probiotic" is very relative. For each specific disease, the medicine is selected individually, since the causes that caused it will differ. To find out which type of bacteria is missing, a stool test is done.

Instead of medicines, you can eat foods with beneficial bacteria. These are mainly lactic acid drinks (kefir, yogurt, curdled milk, fermented baked milk).

It is advisable to purchase a product with a shelf life of no more than 10 days or cook it yourself on sourdough. Beverages with preservatives do not include live microbes.

Probiotics and prebiotics in one

Such medicines are called n biotics." We offer you a list of drugs that most often appear in the medical records of patients:

• Maxilak (contains fructooligosaccharides with bifidus and lactobacilli);
• Narine forte (amino acids with vitamin supplements and bifidobacteria);
• Evitalia (propionobacteria, lactic acid bacteria and lactobacilli);
• Bifistim (a complex preparation that is produced for children and adults and includes bifidobacteria with vitamins, pectin, cellulose and fructose);
• Normoflorin (available in various variations with lacto and bifidobacteria and lactitol).

Reviews indicate that Maxilac remains the most effective. However, this does not mean that for any intestinal disorder, it is worth grasping this medicine as the only salvation. It may simply not be suitable due to the cause of the disease. We recommend everyone to get tested and visit a doctor.

How to take probiotics and prebiotics?

The effectiveness of the drug depends on how it is used correctly. Before starting treatment, the doctor must explain how to drink probiotics and prebiotics.

The traditional scheme for taking probiotics looks like this: 3-4 times half an hour to an hour before meals. The course of treatment is 2-3 weeks. If the medicine is sold in powder form, it must be diluted with water before use. Prebiotics are taken with the same regularity with meals.

Often, probiotics are combined with antibiotics if a course of therapy is prescribed for a bacterial infection. When the purpose of the drug is to protect the gastrointestinal tract, and not the actual treatment, the pattern of use changes. At least 2 hours must pass between taking an antibiotic and a probiotic, otherwise the latter will be useless for our body. It is better to drink a drug with beneficial microorganisms after a meal in an hour.

Probiotics and prebiotics are drunk not only for dysbacteriosis or intestinal infections. They also help with acne, allergies, but the doctor should make a conclusion about their appointment.

Until we meet again, friends!

Probiotics(eubiotics) are special preparations containing live microorganisms. These bacteria are normally found in the human intestine and perform a number of useful functions - they produce the vitamins necessary for the body, protect against toxic effects, and stimulate local immunity. in the digestive system is treated with probiotics.

All probiotic preparations are divided into several generations, which have a number of fundamental differences:

1. 1st generation drugs. This group includes monocomponent drugs that include only one type of microorganisms. For example, it can be cultures or. Preparations of the 1st generation are most often used for the selective correction of microflora disorders. The drug can also be prescribed for preventive purposes.
2. 2nd generation drugs. The group of agents of the 2nd generation includes self-eliminating antagonists. These microorganisms are not included in the composition that is in the intestines of a healthy person. They are prescribed to suppress the activity of pathogenic bacteria. Probiotics compete with them for nutrients, and therefore the reproduction of pathogens is reduced. The drugs are prescribed for the appearance of intestinal infections in mild forms, as well as for acute diarrhea and severe dysbacteriosis.
3. 3rd generation drugs. These medicines are combined preparations, which include several beneficial strains of intestinal bacteria at once. Some medicines contain additional nutrients that stimulate the activity of probiotic microorganisms. Medicines of the 3rd generation are used for moderate and severe forms of intestinal diseases.
4. Preparations of the 4th generation. Medicines from this group are represented by bifid-containing components that contain live bacteria of the intestinal microflora. They are immobilized on special sorbent particles. Thanks to this composition, 4th generation probiotics have the most active effect on the intestinal microflora. The drugs are used in the presence of a severe intestinal infection, they can be prescribed for severe dysbacteriosis, or for.

It is impossible to determine any universal probiotic that will suit any patient. Each group of drugs has its own indications for the appointment and features of use. The purpose of this or that drug will depend on the diagnosis of the patient and his condition.

List of drugs

1st generation probiotics

This group includes drugs such as colibacterin, bifidumbacterin, lactobacterin. They are available as tablets, powders or capsules. The composition of probiotics includes live bacteria of normal microflora, which are represented by a certain variety of microorganisms - one strain.

The same group includes Biobacton and its analogues. Their composition includes acidophilus bacillus, which actively inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Medicines of this group were developed much later than colibacterin and lactobacterin. Therefore, they are conditionally related to the first generation, only due to the monocomponent composition.

2nd generation probiotics

Second generation drugs include bacillus spores and yeast-like fungi. Normally, they are not found in the human intestine, but when they enter the digestive system, they can have a protective effect. It consists in curbing the activity of pathogenic microorganisms that multiply in the intestines of the patient.

This group includes flonivin, enterol, biosporin. They are available in the form of lyophilisate powders. The composition of the drug includes the culture of the microorganism itself and nutrients for their activation (dietary fiber, vitamins, trace elements, amino acids).

3rd generation probiotics

Third generation drugs are Linex and its analogues (bifiform, acipol). Linex consists of culture, . The combined composition of the drug explains its high effectiveness in severe dysbacteriosis and intestinal infections. The agent can be produced in the form of a powder or capsules.

The most common Russian analogue of the drug Lineks - Acipol- contains lactobacilli and kefir fungi. The medicine is available in the form of capsules, suspensions and drops.

Another drug from the third generation is Acylact. Its peculiarity is that the medicine can be prescribed in the form of suspensions or suppositories. Topical application provides more effective assimilation of the components of the drug.

4th generation probiotics

The group of drugs of the 4th generation includes Probifor, Bifidumbacterin forte. They are available in powder or capsule form. The composition of the preparation includes living microorganisms (bifidobacteria), which are deposited on particles of activated carbon. Such complexes have a more active effect on the composition of the intestinal microflora, as they are better absorbed. Medicines are used even in the most severe cases - with severe dysbacteriosis or severe intestinal infection.

Contraindications

A contraindication to prescribing a probiotic is individual intolerance its composition. The medicine contains not only bacteria, but also proteins, vitamins and other substances. In response to their administration, the patient may experience an allergy, which is usually manifested by a food form of intoxication. If intolerance to a probiotic is detected, it is recommended to cancel the drug or replace it with an analogue with a different composition.

When are probiotics given?

• . Probiotics are prescribed when quantitative or qualitative changes in the composition of the intestinal microflora are detected. These conditions include severe dysbacteriosis.
• . The need for drugs occurs with severe infections accompanied by a diarrheal syndrome (for example, with).
• Taking antibiotics. Dysbacteriosis can also be caused by the actions of the patient himself. Violation of the composition of the microflora is provoked by uncontrolled intake of antibiotics. Especially often this condition occurs if the patient takes the drug on his own and does not comply with the dosage.
• . This condition is associated with a violation of peristalsis in the intestinal wall, which leads to the development of a severe diarrheal syndrome. Treatment of the disease should be complex and versatile. One of its components is the appointment of probiotics to restore normal microflora.

Can I take probiotics for prevention?

Prophylactic use of probiotics should be done rationally. It is prescribed for patients who will have a long course of antibiotic therapy to compensate for the adverse effects on the intestinal flora. A course of probiotics is indicated for patients who have chronic disorders in the composition of the microflora with a risk of developing intestinal pathology.

Uncontrolled use of preparations containing probiotic bacteria is not recommended.

If the patient does not have dysbacteriosis, then there is no need for additional "settlement" of the intestine. Bacteria from the preparation may not reach the habitat or take root there due to increased competition with already existing symbionts. In this case, the therapy will be meaningless.

Therefore, if you want to “support” the intestinal microflora, it is recommended to use not probiotics, but preparations containing nutrients for intestinal bacteria. They will improve the condition of the normal intestinal flora and support its activity.

Probiotics in foods

Beneficial live microorganisms are found in many foods:

• dairy products (cottage cheese, cheese, kefir, buttermilk, yogurt);
• bananas;
• cornflakes;
• vegetables (garlic, onions, cucumbers, especially pickled ones);
• bakery products;
• sauerkraut.

In most cases, a complete diet containing a variety of foods can compensate for a person's natural need for probiotics.