Peptic ulcer affects people regardless of their age, gender or social status. Therefore, it is imperative to be able to solve the problem without serious side effects. One of these solutions can be considered bismuth subcitrate, which not only destroys the bacterium-causative agent of gastric ulcers, but also protects its surface, forming a film on it.
pharmachologic effect
The main effect of the drug is aimed at eliminating the infection of the helicobacter pylori bacterium, which causes ulcers and erosion on the surface of the stomach and duodenum. In addition, in the acidic environment of bismuth stomach, subcitrate forms a protective film that protects the stomach from damage.
In addition, it contributes to the activation of its own cytoprotective mechanisms, increases the synthesis of prostaglandins and bicarbonates. As a result, after taking the drug, not only the cause of the ulcer is eliminated, but also the gastrointestinal tract protection is enhanced. To convert bismuth into a protective film, a strongly acidic environment of gastric juice is required.
Indications
The main indications for taking bismuth subcitrate are gastric and duodenal ulcer caused by the influence of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Also, the drug is indicated for administration in gastritis (both associated with a bacterial infection and not), externally for skin diseases and eczema.
The drug showed itself well in the treatment of gastrointestinal inflammation, which appeared due to the long intake of drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The introduction of bismuth preparations into the therapeutic regimen also helps to improve the overall protective functions of the stomach if the patient has a risk of developing injuries.
In the treatment of stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers with medications, the drug is included in the kit for the complex treatment of the disease, and is used as a single drug. However, it is recommended, nevertheless, to combine it with other means. This will increase the chance of a quick cure.
Instructions for use
According to the instructions for the use of bismuth subcitrate, the frequency of taking the tablets depends on the age of the patient. An adult needs to take a tablet four times a day, while a child from 8 to 12 years old - a tablet twice a day.
After administration, a small amount of water should be taken with a tablet. The duration of the course of administration is from 4 to 8 weeks, after which you need to take at least 8 weeks off, during which it is not recommended to take preparations containing bismuth.
In the presence of injuries caused by Helicobacter pylori, bismuth drugs are used as part of combination therapy and are applied strictly according to the scheme: 1 tablet of bismuth subcitrate twice a day, 1 tablet of clarithromycin twice a day and 1 tablet of amoxicillin twice a day. It is also recommended to use proton pump inhibitors in therapy. Thanks to this form of treatment, bismuth preparations contribute to the maximum protection of the stomach and duodenum.
After successful treatment, you should continue taking bismuth drug to eliminate the likelihood of relapse and protect the stomach from possible damage. The use of the drug should preferably be limited to 6 weeks, since prolonged use of the drug can cause negative side effects.
Contraindications
Despite the fact that bismuth subcitrate is considered a safe drug, it should not be taken in patients with diagnosed renal impairment. If possible, it is also necessary to replace the drug if the patient is under 14 years old. With pregnancy or breastfeeding, the use of the drug is allowed with caution.
Analogs
Bismuth subcitrate is represented on the pharmaceutical market by drugs such as De-Nol and Vis-Nol. Also similar in action are drugs from the antacid group, since they also provide protection of the stomach with a film on its inner surface. These include drugs "Almagel", "Maalox", "Rennie" and many others.
special instructions
Application may cause stool to stain black. Bismuth subcitrate and analogues require exclusion from the diet of liquid and food, which helps to reduce the acidity of gastric juice, as well as antacid preparations. This is done because acidic gastric juice is necessary for the preparation to form a protective film for gastroprotective action.
It is extremely undesirable for a long (more than two months) use of the drug, since there is a risk of developing encephalopathy. However, a similar effect is unlikely if the correct dosages are observed.
There is a small likelihood of side effects that interfere with concentration and attention, so you should be careful when driving with drugs containing bismuth.
When taking any medication with bismuth, you should refrain from using other drugs containing the same substance. The use of several analogues can lead to an increase in the amount of bismuth in the blood and, as a consequence, the risk of developing undesirable side effects, including exposure to the nervous system.