What a probiotic. List of probiotics to restore intestinal microflora

Normal operation The human intestine is provided by the bacteria and microbes living in it. A certain ratio of beneficial and opportunistic microorganisms makes up the climate or intestinal microflora. Probiotics for the intestines are necessary to restore the required amount of beneficial and opportunistic bacteria that play an important role in life human body.

At birth, the baby's intestines are not fully formed and completely sterile. The first beneficial bifidobacteria pass through mother's milk. They will make up the bulk of the intestinal microflora throughout a person’s life. Bifidobacteria protect against the penetration of pathogenic microflora, participate in the synthesis of most vitamins, and help in the absorption of microelements.

The next large group of microflora is lactobacilli, which are necessary to protect the body from putrefactive and pathogenic bacteria.

The role of probiotics

Probiotics, or eubiotics, do a lot for humans useful functions. In addition to protection, beneficial bacteria contribute to the restoration of all mucous membranes of the body, strengthening immune systems s and the removal of toxins.

Any violation of the quantitative composition of the intestinal flora reduces the body's resistance and causes the development of various diseases. And for diseases such as: diarrhea, taking probiotics for therapeutic purposes is indicated.

The topic of the benefits of specific types of probiotics for certain diseases has not been fully studied to date. But pediatricians strongly recommend taking medications containing beneficial bacteria to treat such pathological conditions as:

• Diarrhea that occurs after antibacterial therapy. Enterol is better suited for recovery than others. The bacteria Saccharomyces boulardii included in its composition help relieve diarrhea and increase the body's protective functions.
• Rotavirus infection, one of the main symptoms of which is diarrhea. The therapeutic regimen includes drugs containing lactobacilli Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
• Both monocomponent preparations and combined preparations containing several types of beneficial bacteria are used.

Classification of probiotics

The benefits of bacteria necessary for the human body have been known for a long time. Therefore, probiotics - preparations containing live microorganisms - have been produced for many decades. Today there are several types of products, representing different generations of drugs that restore the quantitative and qualitative composition of microflora:

• First generation monocomponent products, such as:
  • Lactobacterin,
  • Colibacterin,
  • Bifidumbacterin.

They contain only one type of bacterial strain.

• Second generation probiotics represents a group of self-eliminating antagonists, such as:
  • Sporobacterin,
  • Bactisubtil,
  • Biosporin.

• Third generation probiotics include multicomponent products, which contain not only strains of beneficial bacteria, but also dietary supplements important for the body, these are:
  • Bifiform,
  • Acylact,
  • Bifiliz,

Probiotics for the intestines, the list of which is listed above, are analogues of such a product as Linex.

• Latest fourth generation drugs contain live beneficial bacteria that are part of normal microflora intestines, this is:
  • Florin Forte,
  • Bifidumbacterin Forte,
  • Probifor.

In addition to the quantitative composition of beneficial bacteria, all probiotics differ in the type of microorganisms they contain. It is very important to know which probiotics are trustworthy. Most of the drugs containing such components that can truly restore the normal balance of the intestines are produced in our country. Of all the tested imported dietary supplements, only Linex, Bifiform, Enterol.

So far, only drugs can quickly and efficiently restore the balance of intestinal microflora domestic production. This is explained by the use of bacteria adapted to life in the human body, taking into account the region of residence.

Mass production various means and drugs that help restore intestinal microflora, often causes confusion when choosing medications. Therefore, every literate person needs to accurately represent all types bacterial preparations, and know their differences, advantages and disadvantages.

Types of drugs containing beneficial bacteria

For the normal functioning of beneficial bacteria, it is not enough to colonize them in the intestines; the bacteria need good nutrition, which comes with prebiotics.

The main components of prebiotics are carbohydrates that are not digested in the stomach and small intestine. Reaching the large intestine, these substances become food for bacteria and microorganisms. The presence of probiotics and prebiotics is inextricably linked with normal operation intestines, and accordingly human health.

Probiotics

• Bifidobacteria contain drugs such as:
  • Probifor,
  • Bifiliz,
  • Bificol,
  • Bifidumbacterin,
  • Bifiform.

• Colin-containing drugs are:
  • Bioflor,
  • Colibacterin,
  • Bificol.

• Lactobacilli are found in such products as:
  • Gastrofarm,
  • Biopakton,
  • Atsilak,
  • Lactobacterin,
  • Acipol.

• Preparations containing yeast-like fungi, bacilli, aerococci and saccharomyces are:
  • Biosporin,
  • Bactisporin,
  • Sporobacterin,
  • Bactisubtil,
  • Enterol.

• Enterococci contain all domestic drugs, and from imported ones:
  • Bifiform,
  • Linux.

Prebiotics

Effective treatment of intestinal diseases largely depends on the nutrition of the introduced bacteria. Therefore, in addition to probiotics, the treatment regimen must include prebiotics (see), these are:

• Lactulose,
• Lysozyme,
• Hilak Forte,
• Pantothenic acid,
• Inulin.

dietary supplements

Dietary supplements containing only natural microorganisms have become firmly established clinical practice a few years ago. The following groups of drugs are distinguished.

• Domestic dietary supplements. These are products that are not intended to treat any diseases, but are used to improve the health of the body, strengthen the immune system and correct intestinal microflora. Such drugs include:
  • Normoflorin,
  • Yogulate,
  • Euflorin,
  • Laminolact,
  • Biovestin,
  • Polybacterin.

• Imported dietary supplements are:
  • Probionix,
  • Ecofemin (Microflora Balance),
  • Symbiolact,
  • Rioflora,
  • Rela life,
  • Flora dofilus,
  • Normobakt,
  • Acidophilus.

• Dietary supplements specially created for children. Distinctive feature of these funds is to take into account the age-related characteristics of the child’s intestines. Bacteria colonize gradually, with the development and formation of the intestines. Therefore, children's dietary supplements have special composition and quantitative content of beneficial microorganisms.
  • Primadophyllus,
  • Junior,
  • Bifidus,
  • Bifidumbacterin-multi, intended for children over three years of age.

The use of probiotics for children and adults must always be agreed with the attending physician. Despite the fact that the products are not classified as drugs, their illiterate and uncontrolled use can cause serious complications, such as:

• formation of stones in gallbladder or bladder
• Quincke's edema,
• metabolic disease.

Features of first generation probiotics

To correct the intestinal microflora when a child is diagnosed with dysbiosis, medications containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are prescribed. They compensate for the lack of beneficial microorganisms and help prevent infectious diseases.

If there is an acute intestinal infection, sorbed probiotics are needed, as well as medications directional action. Only a comprehensive impact will help correct the situation and get rid of the problem. For example, Colibacterin has a powerful effective action in the treatment of certain types of torpid colitis. But in a situation with colitis in a child, it is better not to use this remedy.

Probiotics produced in dry dosage form are diluted before use boiled water room temperature in combination 1x1. Required conditions for administration are 30 minutes before each meal, that is, 3 to 4 times a day.

It is customary to add Biobacton and all its generics or analogues to drugs of the same type. Despite the fact that the product is a new generation drug, it contains only acidophilus bacillus, which is necessary to combat pathogenic bacteria. The drug is recommended for the treatment of intestinal infections of viral and bacterial etiology, simultaneously with antibacterial therapy for children from the first day of life.

Second generation probiotics

The composition of the products included in the group of second generation probiotics includes spores of some types of bacilli and spores of yeast-like fungi. These microorganisms are not part of the normal intestinal microflora, but their presence in the large intestine helps fight pathogenic microbes and bacteria. Preparations containing self-eliminating antagonists are prescribed for non-infectious intestinal disorders or uncomplicated forms of intestinal infection and subcompensated dysbiosis. If these drugs do not give the desired result within a week, probiotics containing bacteria from normal intestinal flora are included in the treatment regimen.

Bactisubtil, Flonivin BS

These are products containing bacterial spores that have a strong antibacterial, antidiarrheal and antimicrobial effect on most pathogenic microorganisms. Spores of this type of bacilli do not die under the influence of gastric juice, and easily reaching the intestines, contribute to the restoration of normal microflora.

Bactisporin, Sporobacterin

Probiotics containing an active, live antagonistic strain. Bacillus subtilis has chromosomal resistance to the antibacterial action of rimphapicin.

Enterol

The product contains yeast-like fungi called Saccharomycetes. These fungi actively destroy clostridia, so Enterol is recommended for diarrhea that occurs during antibacterial therapy.

Biosporin

The drug contains spores of Lichieniform bacilli.

Eubicore

New generation nutritional supplement. In addition to dietary fiber and inactivated yeast culture, its composition is enriched with minerals and vitamins.

Third generation of probiotics (Linex analogues)

The third generation brought together drugs that combine several types of strains of one or more types of beneficial bacteria. This allows them to stimulate the action of beneficial bacteria. In addition, the composition of third-generation probiotics always contains additional components that enhance the effect and effectiveness of probiotics. Acipol and Atsilak contain strains of one type of beneficial bacteria, while Linex and Bifiform contain strains of several types of essential components.

Acipol contains kefir fungus polysaccharide, Bifilez contains lactose lysophyme, and Bifiform contains lactulose. This allows these drugs to be prescribed when infectious diseases moderate severity, and in particularly difficult cases, introduce them into the general treatment regimen.

Fourth generation probiotics

The fourth generation of bacteriological agents is distinguished by the presence of sorbed probiotics. This means that bifidobacteria for these products are immobilized on crushed particles activated carbon. This method of processing and preparing probiotics allows for a more protective effect, unlike other groups of similar drugs.

Eg, Bifidumbacterin fits perfectly into the ARVI treatment regimen, as it has a strong detoxifying effect. It is prescribed for treatment in gastroenterology and for bacterial imbalances of various etiologies and degree of expression. The only contraindication is children with severe gastroenterocolitis and rotavirus infection.

Probifor is the most effective remedy with detoxifying and antidiarrheal effects, as it contains tens of times more bifidobacteria than other drugs. Its use is justified in severe forms intestinal infection and monotherapy for many diseases of the large intestine. The effect of this substance can be compared to the work of antibiotics, but without side effects. Its effectiveness in stopping diarrhea is calculated in two or three doses.

Synbiotics (combined agents)

These are new generation drugs that contain not only the necessary strains of beneficial bacteria, but also all the important nutrients for their normal functioning, that is, prebiotics. Such combinations are produced in the form of dietary supplements, a prominent representative of which is Maxilak. Its composition almost completely models the normal intestinal microflora:

• oligofructose;
• nine types of bacteria;
• beneficial streptococci;
• lactococci;
• bifidobacteria;
• lactobacilli.

Of the nine positive bacteria present, seven are the main components of normal intestinal microflora. In addition, the remaining components of Maxilac can effectively fight almost all diseases of the small and large intestines, as well as infections of the respiratory and immune systems. This drug is produced only in Poland, all other types are generics. The approximate cost ranges from 300 to 360 rubles.

The use of probiotics for the treatment of children

The selection of probiotics is carried out only by a pediatrician after receiving all the necessary tests. For a baby whose intestines are not yet completely populated with the necessary microflora, it is important to maintain the quantitative and qualitative ratio of beneficial bacteria.

About detection dysbacteriosis in premature babies and infants up to one year of age are recommended:

• Linux,
• Acipol
• Lactobacterin,
• Bifidumbacterin.

In the course of treatment of respiratory viral infections, bronchitis, and other pathologies of the respiratory tract (), be sure to include probiotics and prebiotics in short sessions not exceeding seven days.

For effective treatment hepatitis increased concentrations of the drugs Bifidumbacterin and Probifor are required for a treatment duration of up to 7-10 days. If allergic reactions, dermatoses and neurodermatitis occur, medications such as:

• Atsilak
• Lactobacterin
• Bifidumbacterin

• duodenal ulcer;
• deficiency of lactobacilli in proximal parts Gastrointestinal tract;
• acute gastroenteritis infectious etiology.

The following series of coli-containing probiotics are used with caution and only according to strict indications:

• Bificol;
• Colibacterin;
• Bioflor.

It happens that prescribed probiotics do not give the expected treatment results. In this case, the following drugs are prescribed, depending on the diagnosis and situation:

• prebiotics;
• intestinal antiseptics;
• antifungal drugs (in tablets);
• bacteriophages.

For acute food poisoning and intestinal infections in children, duration of treatment with probiotics:

• 4 weeks for 1st generation;
• 5-10 days for the 2nd generation, followed by the administration of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli;
• 5-7 days maximum for 3-4 generations of probiotics.

An important point is that, despite the fact that most probiotics are not medications, giving them to a child without consulting a specialist is strictly prohibited. An overpopulation of bacteria can lead to the development serious illnesses. Therefore, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary supplements can be given to a child only after a doctor’s prescription and under his supervision.

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 or months. Why does taking probiotics not always bring results, despite their high effectiveness and long-term 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 is beneficial microorganisms, which help in digesting food, and pathogenic. If the patient is healthy, the first group predominates, not giving harmful microbes a chance to multiply. In some cases, after taking antibiotics, for constipation, poisoning, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), their number decreases, pathogenic bacteria grow rapidly, causing symptoms of the disease. After treatment of the underlying disease, the main task is to restore the normal biocenosis, and therefore probiotics are taken for the intestinal microflora.

The probiotic contains live bifidobacteria or lactobacilli, which, when they enter the gastrointestinal tract, perform several functions:

1. Inhibit the reproduction of opportunistic microorganisms.

2. In the process of their life activity, they release a growth stimulating factor, which accelerates the colonization of their own flora.

3. Stimulate local and general protective immune mechanisms.

4. Fighting re-infection.

5. Have an anti-cancer effect.

6. Normalize intestinal motility, the functioning of glands and enzymes.

7. Create a special environment in which harmful bacteria it's hard 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 protective forces the body, 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 cases of pneumonia or sore throat.

5. In case of IBS, the effect of a probiotic on intestinal function is only positive; it helps with both diarrhea and constipation.

6. Availability food allergies.

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

A contraindication may be individual intolerance, when a person is allergic to one of the components. In this case, you should not completely abandon the probiotic; your doctor will help you create a black list of the names of drugs that contain this substance. The patient is recommended to take a medicine from a different group.

Selection rules

To be included in the white list of approved probiotics, they must be:

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

Bacteria can enter the intestines with food or in the form of medications. The source of living microorganisms is dairy products fermented with bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. It is available in the form of starters, yoghurts, kefir, even food for children. Regular use leads to normalization of stool, disappearance of constipation, bloating, and pain.

But use better products homemade. Store-bought products can be pasteurized, which kills beneficial bacteria. Dyes and flavorings also reduce the number of colony-forming units. Therefore, the quality of yogurt is questionable. It’s easy to prepare a healthier and tastier analogue at home. Firstly, the serving size can be adjusted and you can always have fresh product. Secondly, natural additives in the form of berries, fruits, and jam do not affect the viability of bacteria.

Generations of medicines

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

1st generation – monocomponent, that is, only one strain of bacteria is present in the probiotic. In most cases one can judge by the name 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 positive influence on him. Used in children for diarrhea and intestinal infections. The list of probiotics in this group includes: Sporobacterin, Enterol, Biosporin, Eubicor.

3rd generation – probiotics consist of several strains or species of bacteria. The most popular representatives are Linex, Bifilong, Bifikol.

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

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

Common drugs

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

1. Linux.

Probiotics are available in capsules and powder. This combination remedy, contains lactobacteria, bifidobacteria, enterococcus, also Excipients. Linex normalizes motility, relieves constipation or diarrhea, increases intestinal acidity, making the growth of pathogenic bacteria impossible. 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, so a powder is used, which is first dissolved in juice or milk.

2. Bifiform.

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

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

3. Hilak forte.

It is used after treatment with antibiotics, for intoxication, flatulence, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, atrophic enteritis. Release form: drops. Well tolerated allergic reactions rarely occur. The drug helps restore the intestinal epithelium, kills harmful microbes due to changes in acidity.

4. Lactobacterin.

Available in the form of 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 for serious organic intestinal pathologies: 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 has been well studied and is indicated for food allergies, atopic dermatitis, frequent stomatitis, and gingivitis. For children it is available in powder.

6. Enterol.

This antagonistic agent inhibits the proliferation of pathogenic flora, activates local protection in the intestines, and promotes restoration of the mucous membrane. It has a good effect on infectious diarrhea, IBS, which is accompanied by diarrhea, and candidiasis. Capsules are taken 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 any probiotic. Has a pronounced antimicrobial effect. Clinical researches showed that the use of Probifor is equivalent to the effect of antibacterial agents with shigellosis. Antimicrobial, antitoxic effect helps fight diarrhea of various origins. The medicine is recommended after radiation or chemotherapy. Bifidobacteria, which are included in the composition, improve digestion, enzyme activity, and the production of vitamins. Food does not affect the properties of Probifor, therefore taking the probiotic does not depend on food. The powder or capsule should be washed down 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, and yeast fungi. They have an immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effect, and prevent the absorption of toxins and bacterial waste products into the blood. Probiotics are used for constipation, diarrhea, complex treatment allergies, helminth infections. These are quite persistent drugs. It has been proven that all bacilli remain alive after being in the stomach for 3 hours; they also tolerate a solution of 1% bile without problems.

Choosing a product for children

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

Immediately after birth, the baby's intestines may be affected by Klebsiella, Staphylococcus aureus. The use of Linex, Bifidumbacterin forte, Lactobacterin for 28 days is indicated. The prebiotic Probifor has a shorter course of treatment - 10 days. But you absolutely cannot select a remedy on your own; only a doctor will do this.

Updated: 06/27/2018 15:04:25

Many people without medical education are often confused by such specific terms as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics. However, in the case of a visit to the pharmacy and when purchasing similar products to stimulate the immune system and improve digestion without a prescription, you need to know the difference between these terms. Let us explain them in accessible language.

Probiotics- these are preparations that contain various beneficial living microorganisms, most often bacteria, cocci, yeast. As for prebiotics, the prefix “pre-” means “before”, and “bio” means “life”.

Prebiotics- these are drugs that do not contain strains of living bacteria, but they help them settle in the intestines and improve the functioning of normal microflora, helping it defeat pathogenic microorganisms. In other words, prebiotics stimulate the activity of probiotics. It is advisable to prescribe these drugs in turn. An example of a prebiotic is Hilak Forte, which contains a ready-made medium for the growth and reproduction of beneficial microorganisms.

Now let's look at some of the representatives of these exclusively useful supplements- probiotics that help promote healthy digestion. Strictly speaking, these substances are not drugs, since they do not contain chemicals that interfere with the metabolism of the human body. They simply help us become healthy, increase our immunity, and get rid of dysbacteriosis. Let's consider the products included in the popular rating of “health assistants”.

Rating of the best probiotics for the intestines

The best monocomponent probiotics

Monocomponent probiotics include the most simple remedies, which contain only one type of living microorganisms. This may be normal E. coli, lactic acid bacteria, or bifidobacteria. These probiotics were the first to appear on the market, which is why they are called “first generation” probiotics. Despite the fact that many other combined and complex drugs have appeared, these drugs for improving microflora gastrointestinal tract are still not outdated. The rating opens with a popular folk probiotic - Bifidumbacterin.

This probiotic contains only live bifidobacteria that have been vacuum dried or freeze-dried. Most often you can see bifidumbacterin in powder, which has a beige or grayish color. But it is also available in capsules, tablets, vaginal and rectal suppositories, and in the form of a liquid concentrate. Like many other probiotics, bifidobacteria normalize intestinal activity, allow the synthesis of vitamins to re-establish, and help in the complex therapy of many chronic diseases.

Bifidumbacterin is indicated for various intestinal disorders, after the prescription of antibiotics, after dysentery and salmonellosis. You can use a probiotic after various extraintestinal infections, for example, in recovery period treatment of pneumonia. Bifidumbacterin is indicated for children, including infancy, for women with inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs after antibacterial therapy and for many other conditions.

For small children under the age of 6 months, only powder can be used, and other forms can be prescribed only from the age of three. Babies can even add the powder to breast milk. Usually the course of treatment is 2 weeks, and only a doctor can extend it. Probiotic capsules are taken orally half an hour before meals. The dosage is prescribed according to the instructions. The most important thing is to prevent spoilage of the drug, you should not dilute the powder in hot water. For 10 capsules you can pay only 100 rubles, for 20 tablets - 200 rubles, for 10 suppositories - 70 rubles, but 10 ml of liquid concentrate in a bottle will cost 600 rubles. Bifidumbacterin is produced in tablets and capsules by the domestic company Ecopolis, suppositories by Lanafarm, and liquid concentrate by Bio Long Life.

Advantages and disadvantages

Bifidumbacterin has practically no contraindications, and the only disadvantages include individual intolerance, which Bifidumbacterin has a shelf life of one year; it must be stored in the refrigerator, like other probiotics.

Lactobacterin also belongs to the first generation probiotics, but, unlike bifidobacteria, its capsules contain live lactobacilli, or lactic acid bacilli, which synthesize lactic acid. It is known that an excessive alkaline environment promotes the development of pathogenic bacteria in the intestines, but a small amount of lactic acid promotes the growth and development of normal microflora. Lactobacterin is primarily indicated when detected in stool analysis when cultured for dysbacteriosis pathogenic staphylococci, E. coli, Proteus.

The pharmaceutical industry produces dry lactobacterin in the form of bottles with probiotic powder. It is recommended to take Lactobacterin during recovery from acute intestinal infections and prolonged diarrhea, which practically eliminate all normal microflora, and for various common diseases that depress our “helpers”. These are the consequences of antibacterial therapy, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Lactobacterin is indicated for the treatment of children with various chronic and acute diseases, with skin pathology, this probiotic is indicated for patients with ulcerative colitis. It is important that it is lactobacilli, or Dederlein bacillus, that make up the main “population” of the female genital tract, and for various vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, it is necessary, after sanitation, to use locally diluted lactobacterin to restore the vaginal microflora in women.

The usual regimen for using a probiotic involves diluting the drug in one teaspoon of water. 1 bottle of Lactobacterin contains 5 doses, and the preparation method (depending on age) is described in detail in the instructions. For example, a baby under 6 months of age can be given three doses 2 times a day, for example when treating an intestinal infection. It can be used for no longer than 10 days without a doctor’s prescription. Lactobacterin is produced by the domestic company Microgen, and you can purchase 10 bottles for 150 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The obvious advantage of Lactobacterin is its use not only in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but also to restore the vaginal biocenosis during gynecological pathology, which is unusual for most probiotics. Lactobacterin is also a probiotic that can be used in babies from the first day of life, and at the same time it is very affordable. Perhaps the only drawback of Lactobacterin is its “narrow” composition of lactic acid bacteria, but it was included in the rating for its versatility and use in gynecological practice.

The last widely known first-generation probiotic can be considered colibacterin. Escherichia coli is a normal Escherichia coli that does not have pathogenic properties, and in this preparation, in addition to the culture of the microorganism, a sugar-gelatin medium is added, all of which is dried in a vacuum and packaged in ampoules of 3 doses each. Unlike the other probiotics described above, there is only an oral form, and each ampoule contains 30 billion living cells - that is, several times more than there are people living on our planet.

There is also a difference in indications. This probiotic is used for diseases that disrupt the microflora of the large intestine. This includes dysentery, both chronic and prolonged, enterocolitis and colitis, as well as recovery (convalescence) after various intestinal infections. This probiotic is not used in gynecological practice, since E. coli should not be found in the genital tract, and use is not indicated for ulcerative lesion intestines. Usually the contents of one ampoule are diluted with water, and after 5 minutes they are used orally half an hour before meals. Thus, an adult requires an average of 10 doses per day, or three ampoules, which can be divided into several doses depending on food intake. You can take Colibacterin from the age of six months. Dry colibacterin is produced by the domestic company Microgen, and you can purchase one package of 10 ampoules at a price of 230 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Of course, Colibacterin is used for more limited indications, but this cannot be considered a disadvantage of the probiotic. In some cases, there may be adverse reactions to the administration of the drug, which may include nausea and slight abdominal discomfort, but this passes quickly and does not require any withdrawal. There is, of course, an individual reaction to Colibacterin, which can manifest itself as a skin rash and diarrhea. In this case, the probiotic should be discontinued. Colibacterin should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 10 degrees.

The best multi-component probiotics

As readers have probably already guessed, multicomponent probiotics include those preparations that contain more than one species or strain of microorganisms, for example, combined probiotics from bifidobacteria and lactic bacteria. Since these probiotics (by the way, they are also called eubiotics) are aimed at creating symbiosis, or mutually beneficial cohabitation of microorganisms, they are sometimes also called symbiotics. Unlike first-generation products, these combinations of probiotics have a complex effect and can be prescribed for more indications. This rating will present well-known and popular combinations of beneficial microorganisms, symbiotics, as well as their derivatives, created by the microbiological industry.

The first complex probiotic, consisting of two types of different living beings, is Acipol, which is available in capsules. Each capsule contains live lactobacilli that produce lactic acid, inactivated by heating kefir grains. As a result, the heated kefir grain is provided with a water-soluble polysaccharide, and this polysaccharide helps lactobacilli to gain a foothold in the body. By and large, Acipol can be classified as a synbiotic, or a drug that contains any additional substances, since the kefir grain in this form is represented by a non-living form. But this is how it has historically developed, and even popular advertising says that Acipol is nothing more than kefir grains and lactic acid sticks. Acipol is indicated for various enteritis, for salmonellosis, for rotavirus diarrhea, for non-infectious forms of gastroenteritis that occur with nausea, vomiting and profuse loose stools. This probiotic is also prescribed for the treatment of functional diarrhea, such as irritable bowel syndrome, and different forms dysbacteriosis. Atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are separate indications. Acipol can also be prescribed to healthy people who are in extreme conditions for the prevention of dysbacteriosis.

It is advisable for adults to take capsules, one capsule three times a day, half an hour before meals. Typically, the course of treatment for intestinal infections is a week, and the prophylactic course is 2 weeks. Acipol is produced by the pharmaceutical company Pharmstandard. For 30 capsules, designed for 10 days of use, you will have to pay about 300 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Acipol is a probiotic, which, perhaps, has the disadvantage of being more expensive compared to monocomponent products. It has no side effects, and hypersensitivity to the components develops very rarely, because it is practically very difficult to find a person who would be allergic to kefir, with the exception of lactase deficiency.

Yogulact is a real complex of probiotics, which contains lactobacilli, or lactic acid bacteria, and thermophilic streptococci. Thermophilic streptococci are used in the national economy to make certain types of cheese, and in humans they help activate the intestines by processing lactose, or milk sugar.

This probiotic is a dietary supplement and is available in 400 mg capsules. In addition to the usual indications, such as intestinal dysbiosis after taking antibiotics and chronic infections, Yogulact can be prescribed to relieve symptoms of food allergies, in complex therapy helminthic infestations, or helminthiasis, in case of malabsorption in the intestine, or in case of malabsorption syndrome. The probiotic is indicated for children and adults living in the Far North, in places with environmentally unfavorable conditions. Yogulact is prescribed for preventive purposes to children in the first year of life who are bottle-fed. For adults, there is a simple dosage regimen - one capsule three times a day after meals. These capsules are produced by the German manufacturer STADA, and 30 capsules can be purchased in pharmacies at a price of 350 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The obvious advantages of Yogulact include a mild complex effect, the absence of side effects and interactions with other drugs, and a relative disadvantage is that this probiotic is contraindicated for use in children under one year of age, and even then due to the lack of clinical data, and a rather high price.

The well-known complex probiotic Linex in Russia already contains three different types of microorganisms. These are well-known acidophilus lactobacilli, or lactic acid bacilli, bifidobacteria, and enterococci. Additionally, it contains lactose and excipients for the capsule shell. One capsule contains at least 12 million live bacteria that help with intestinal function. Lactose makes it possible to increase the acidity in the intestines during its fermentation, which worsens the conditions for the development of pathogenic microorganisms. Normal microflora begins to synthesize various vitamins, which leads to increased immunity.

Linex, like other supplements, is indicated to increase the body's resistance and to prevent dysbiosis in case of symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, belching, constipation, bloating or flatulence. All these symptoms relate to indigestion, or dyspeptic syndrome. Adults need to prescribe Linex two capsules three times a day, and newborns and children under two years old need one capsule, and newborns need to open the capsule and mix it with a small amount of liquid. The probiotic Linex is produced by the company LEK, and you can purchase one package of 32 capsules for 465 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Since Linex is a more balanced probiotic, it should cost more, but for some socially vulnerable groups of the population it is considered a difficult-to-access drug. However, it has no contraindications and is well tolerated, even during pregnancy and lactation. This probiotic can be used along with other medications, such as at the end of a course of antibiotics and even along with powerful chemotherapy drugs.

The best sorption probiotics

Sorptive probiotics differ from the first two groups of probiotics simply in that the active forms of microorganisms (or their metabolites) are combined with a sorbent carrier that has a significant surface area. The sorbent can be compared to a lifebuoy for microorganisms, or a parachute. After all, all microbes that enter the alkaline environment of the intestines need to overcome the attack of gastric juice, and if the probiotic is not protected by an enteric coating, or is not deposited on a special sorbent, then its biological effectiveness may be significantly lower. That is why sorption probiotics are characterized by good digestibility and rapid restoration of intestinal function. The first of these probiotics will be presented by Baktistatin, which deservedly entered the rating.

This nutritional supplement has a dual purpose. It contains zeolite as a carrier, but on the other hand, it does not contain living microorganisms, but contains sterilized and dried cultural liquid obtained from Bacillus subtilis, which does not contain cells of living bacteria, but contains vitamin E. In addition, the composition The probiotic includes fermented soy flour in the form of a hydrolyzate.

Bactistatin is administered orally and is packaged in capsules weighing 500 milligrams. Bactistatin has a number of unique properties. The culture fluid of Bacillus subtilis contains substances that kill pathogenic bacteria but it does not affect beneficial microflora. Also, the substances deposited on the zeolite contain special hydrolytic enzymes that improve cavity and parietal digestion. The supplement contains interferon-like substances that increase protective function human body against viruses. The carrier itself, zeolite, is capable of removing toxins and allergens from the body, and at the same time does not reduce the amount of vitamins, healthy proteins and amino acids.

As a result, bloating and intestinal cramps are reduced, intestinal peristalsis is normalized, and soy flour hydrolyzate promotes improved growth of normal intestinal microflora. Baktistatin, as well as other similar probiotics, is able to treat dysbiosis, is used for gastritis with low acidity, in conditions after taking antibiotics and past intestinal infections, for various skin and allergic diseases, and can be used for prevention. It is prescribed one or two capsules three times a day with meals, and it is indicated for children from the age of six at a daily dose of 2 capsules. Bactistatin is produced Russian manufacturer LLC Kraft, and a package of 20 capsules can be purchased at a price of 270 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Baktistatin can be considered a good inhibitory effect on pathogenic microflora, very rare cases of individual intolerance, and good ability to regulate intestinal microflora and its balance. The negative aspects of the probiotic can be considered the lack of research on the effect of the product on the body of pregnant and lactating women, therefore pregnancy and lactation are contraindications for use.

Bifidumbacterin forte could be considered a monocomponent probiotic, since it contains only bifidobacteria. But these beneficial microorganisms are sorbed on activated carbon, and each sachet or capsule contains at least 50 million colony-forming units, or sources of beneficial microflora. This probiotic is able to normalize intestinal microflora, improve digestion, and modulate immunity. The range of indications for use is very wide. These are various acute intestinal infections, food poisoning, inflammatory and infectious processes, not related to the intestines. This is bronchitis and pneumonia, that's what functional states like constipation chronic pancreatitis and cholecystitis, malabsorption syndrome, allergies, and even urinary tract infections. As in other cases, Bifidumbacterin can be taken during the recovery period after operations, as well as as preparatory measures for various types treatment.

These capsules are taken during meals, and, if necessary, independently of it, since activated carbon protects microorganisms from the harmful effects of gastric acid. As for the powder, it can be mixed with any fermented milk product and consumed internally. For the treatment of acute intestinal infections, one week of administration is sufficient, and for preventive treatment Bifidumbacterin forte can be used for up to 2 weeks, and the drug can be prescribed even to children under one year of age. This probiotic is produced by JSC Partner, and the cost of one package is about 200 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Bifidumbacterin can be considered a fast and active action, since the concentration of microorganisms on activated carbon is very high, and activated carbon itself is able to work as a sorbent and remove it from the body toxic substances. This probiotic has no side effects, it is approved for use in pregnant and lactating women, and individual intolerance is extremely rare. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that the sorbent always remains a sorbent, and if the patient takes Bifidumbacterin forte along with other medications, this will lead to a decrease in their activity, since activated carbon often absorbs medicinal substances.

The best synbiotics

Finally, last group We will present drugs in the rating as synbiotics, from the Latin sin - together. These preparations immediately contain living microflora, that is, probiotics, as well as agents that improve its distribution inside the intestine, that is, prebiotics. In other words, these probiotics can be compared to seeds that are previously placed in a nutrient medium. Such probiotics can be considered very active and beneficial food additives, and cope much better with various diseases as part of complex therapy than 1st generation drugs. The rating includes several well-known and popular synbiotics.

Maxilak contains not only lactobacilli, or lactic acid fermentation rods, of which there are as many as 4 species, but also three types of bifidobacteria, various types of cocci. In order to improve their performance, a low-dimensional oligosaccharide - fructose - is immediately added to the supplement. It is not only a nutritional substrate for beneficial microflora, but is also capable of suppressing pathogenic flora. This drug is available in the form of special capsules that do not dissolve under the influence of gastric juice, and they can not even be stored in the refrigerator, but at room temperature. This remedy is indicated for both adults and children over the age of 3 years. Indications for the use of Maxilac will be standard. These are various types of dysbiosis, long-term use antibiotics for various bacterial infections, viral diarrhea, functional constipation and other conditions.

In total, Maxilak contains 9 different types of microorganisms, and you need to take it one capsule once a day with meals, preferably at evening time. It is advisable for children to pour the capsule into lactic acid products or water, but not into hot water. This probiotic is produced by the Polish company Gen EXO, and a package of 10 capsules, designed for a course of 10 days, can be purchased at a price starting from 400 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Perhaps, based on the combination of various microorganisms, Maxilak can be considered one of the most active and multi-component of all the products included in this rating. There are no contraindications for its use; it can be used in pregnant and lactating women, and only individual intolerance, which develops very rarely, can serve as a reason for discontinuing the drug. It is extremely important that this product can be stored at room temperature for 2 years, and only the price is 40 rubles. and higher per capsule may limit the use of this truly very useful product.

But it turns out there is no limit to perfection and rising prices for any probiotics. An even more interesting remedy is Bion-3. We can consider this drug to be a multivitamin complex that contains a variety of vitamins, such as folic acid, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, biotin, fat-soluble vitamins A and E, ascorbic acid, and all B vitamins. In addition, it contains calcium, molybdenum, magnesium, iron, zinc and other trace elements. As for the “living part,” it is provided by lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria. Essentially, Bion-3 is a source of vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and various microorganisms. Therefore, it is most often used for preventive purposes, both for adults and children over 14 years of age. It is enough to use the drug one tablet daily, the course of administration is one month.

This nutritional supplement is produced by the Austrian company Merck, and one package, designed for monthly use, can be purchased at a price of 710 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Naturally, the more components a different drug has, the more restrictions it has. So, in addition to standard intolerance, the drug is not recommended for children under 14 years of age, with renal failure, excess calcium, hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. Since there are such contraindications, you must consult a doctor before use. This product is already a drug in the mid-price category, which may also limit its sales.

Biovestin-Lacto contains live and active bifidobacteria, and the strain of these microorganisms is characterized by a significant reproduction rate and intolerance to various pathogenic microbes. In addition, this drug contains lactic acid rods and metabolic products of these same bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. These products create a favorable biochemical environment around the growing colony, which makes it difficult for representatives of pathogenic flora to access them.

Biovestin-Lacto is indicated for all conditions that were listed for all drugs above, as well as during pregnancy and before childbirth, during treatment with hormones, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, for stress, anemia and vitamin deficiency conditions, and for various digestive disorders and for the treatment acute intestinal infections. Biovestin-Lacto can be used even in newborn babies, and for adults the daily dose is 12 ml, the drug is used in liquid form and consumed before meals. In healthy patients, to prevent pathological conditions, it is necessary to undergo a course of treatment for 1 month 3 times a year. Biovestin-Lacto is produced by the Russian company Bio-Vesta, and 7 bottles of 12 milliliters can be purchased for 270 rubles. So this is the weekly dose for an adult.

Advantages and disadvantages

Since this product is an active food additive, the only contraindications can be indicated as a state of individual intolerance, as well as intolerance to lactose and milk protein, since Biovestin-Lacto contains skim milk. A relative inconvenience will be the need to use the warm zone of the refrigerator, since this product must be stored in its door, at a temperature of about plus 4 degrees, for no more than 2 months.

In this case, the conclusion must be said that, despite the fact that all the drugs included in the rating, which contain live microorganisms, are essentially over-the-counter nutritional supplements, it is necessary to consult a doctor at the very first use, especially if we are talking about infants age, and especially for newborns. Despite the fact that cases of individual intolerance are very rare for these drugs, consultation with a pediatrician will never be superfluous.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Probiotics and prebiotics - definition and general characteristics

Currently, probiotics include the following microorganisms:

• Lactobacilli (L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, L. casei, L. bulgaricus, L. lactis, L. reuteri, L. rhamnosus, L. fermentum, L. jonsonii, L. gassed);
• Bifidobacteria (B. bifidum, B. infantis, B. longum, B. breve, B. adolescents);
• Non-pathogenic Escherichia Coli species;
• Non-pathogenic species of Bacillus (B. subtilis);
• Non-pathogenic species of Enterococcus (Enterococci faecium, E. salivarius);
• Lactic acid streptococcus (Str. thermophylus);
• Yeast fungi Saccharomyces boulardii.

Probiotics can be found both in food and in specially created and developed medications or dietary supplements. For example, traditional probiotic products used by people for many centuries are kefir, fermented baked milk, cheeses, yogurt, matsoni, ricotta and other lactic acid products. Currently, there are numerous dairy products on the market that are specially enriched with one or another probiotic, for example, Activia, Actimel, Bifidokefir, ice cream with bifidobacteria, etc. In principle, food products, dietary supplements, and medicines containing microorganisms - Representatives of normal human microflora are called probiotics. In the further part of the article we will consider only drugs and, accordingly, by the term “probiotic” we will mean drugs.

That is, prebiotics, unlike probiotics, are chemical substances, which are contained in quite wide range food products. The largest amount of prebiotics is found in dairy products, corn, cereals, bread, onions, garlic, beans, peas, artichokes, asparagus, bananas, etc. In addition, many commercially available products (porridge, biscuits, dairy products, etc.) , enriched with prebiotics, which is always indicated on the label.

Prebiotics actually include the following organic compounds and food components:

• Oligofructose;
• Inulin;
• Galactooligosaccharides;
• Para-aminobenzoic acid;
• Calcium pantothenate;
• Lactulose;
• Lactitol;
• Breast milk oligosaccharides;
• Dietary fiber (fiber);
• Extracts of algae, yeast, carrots, potatoes, corn, rice, pumpkin and garlic;
• Xylitol;
• Raffinose;
• Sorbitol;
• Xylobiosis;
• Pectins;
• Dextrin;
• Chitosan;
• Valin;
• Arginine;
• Glutamic acid;
• Glutathione;
• Ubiquinone;
• Carotenoids;
• Vitamins A, E and C;
• Selenium;
• Eicosapentaenoic acid;
• Lectins.

Probiotics and prebiotics - what are the differences (what is the difference)

Returning to the differences between probiotics and prebiotics, it must be said that the former are living microorganisms, and the latter are chemical organic compounds. That is, the difference between probiotics and prebiotics is the same as between any living creature, such as a dog or cat, and some organic chemical compound, For example, ethyl alcohol or glycerin. Moreover, probiotics are microorganisms that make up the normal microflora of the human intestine. Prebiotics are organic compounds that provide the most favorable conditions for the growth and reproduction of bacteria of normal microflora, while simultaneously inhibiting pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms.

To summarize, we can say that probiotics are microorganisms of normal intestinal microflora. Prebiotics are substances that provide optimal conditions for the growth and development of normal microflora. Both prebiotics and probiotics have beneficial effects on the human condition.

The reason for the confusion between probiotics and prebiotics is their similar names, differing by only one letter, as well as the general scope of therapeutic use. After all, both are used to treat various digestive disorders and intestinal diseases.

Positive effects of probiotics and prebiotics on the human body

• Colonization of the large intestine by representatives of normal microflora, which take root, begin to grow and multiply, suppressing, and subsequently preventing pathogenic or conditionally pathogenic bacteria, viruses, yeast or fungi from becoming active. In fact, thanks to the colonization of the intestines with representatives of normal microflora, dysbiosis is cured;
• Improving the balance between representatives of normal microflora and pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms in favor of the former, which prevents relapse of dysbacteriosis;
• Bacteria of normal microflora, breaking down food components in the colon, produce vitamin K, biotin, niacin and folic acid;
• Probiotics promote the breakdown of bile salts, which helps lower the concentration of cholesterol in the blood;
• Improving digestion, as well as normalizing intestinal motor function, eliminating bloating, flatulence, colic, etc.;
• Optimization of the time of passage of the food bolus through the large intestine;
• Elimination of intoxication by activating components of the local immune system;
• Stimulation and improvement of the functions of local immunity (Peyer's patches of the intestine);
• They have a detrimental effect on the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which provokes the development of peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis;
• Reduces the number and severity of side effects of antibiotics used in the treatment of stomach ulcers;
• Restore intestinal microflora after antibiotic therapy;
• Relieves diarrhea caused by acute intestinal infection.

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

Prebiotics have the following positive effects on the functioning of the digestive tract and the general condition of a person:

• Promote a 10-fold increase in the number of representatives of normal microflora (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, E. coli, etc.) while simultaneously reducing the number of opportunistic microbes (staphylococci, non-lactic acid streptococci, etc.);
• Suppression of the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microbes in the intestines, such as salmonella, listeria, campylobacter, shigella or vibrio cholerae;
• Eliminate excess mucus from the walls and lumen of the large intestine;
• Accelerate the healing process of the colon wall;
• Maintain optimal acidity (pH) for the life of bacteria of normal microflora;
• They increase the volume of feces, stimulating intestinal motility and thereby eliminating constipation;
• Reduce gas formation in the intestines, relieving a person of bloating;
• Stimulates the synthesis of vitamins B and K;
• They have a moderate antibacterial effect on representatives of pathogenic microflora due to stimulation of local immunity mechanisms;
• Restore normal intestinal microflora.

Effects of probiotics and prebiotics - video

Are probiotics beneficial - video

Classification of probiotics and prebiotics

There are currently no other classifications of prebiotics. Prebiotic medications are available in various forms - syrups, tablets, powders, granules, etc. Each drug usually indicates which prebiotics it contains.

Depending on their state of aggregation, probiotics are divided into two large groups - liquid and dry. Liquid Probiotics– these are solutions or suspensions that were not initially subjected to the lyophilization (drying) process. These solutions contain a certain number of living bacteria, as well as the substrate on which they feed. In addition, liquid probiotics may contain additional ingredients (vitamins, microelements, amino acids, etc.), as well as various substances, produced by bacteria during their life, such as lactic acid. Bacteria from the liquid form of probiotics begin to act immediately after entering the human body. In addition, an additional benefit of the liquid form of probiotics is that you can not only take it orally, but also insert it into the vagina, rectum, nose, mouth, throat, ears, or apply it to the skin and hair.

Dry probiotics– these are specially dried (lyophilized) cultures of microorganisms, which are a fine powder. Dry probiotics can be sold in the form of tablets, capsules, or powders for suspension. After taking such dry probiotics, it takes 1 to 4 hours for the microorganisms to emerge and activate, so their effect does not begin immediately after use.

Depending on which bacteria are contained in the preparation, probiotics are classified into the following groups:

• Lactic acid strains - probiotics contain L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, L. bulgaricum, L. casei, L. fermentum, B. lactis;
• Donor strains - probiotics contain B. bifidum, B. longum, B. infantis, B. adolescents, L. rhamnosus, E. faecium, L. salivarius;
• Antagonists – B. subtilus, S. boulardii.

Donor strains are bacteria that make up the normal intestinal microflora. Normally, such strains make up from 90 to 93% of the total intestinal microflora.

Antagonists are bacteria that do not normally live in the human intestine, but have beneficial effects when ingested. These bacteria are completely removed from the intestines within about a day after the last dose. While antagonist bacteria are in the intestines, they inhibit the growth of pathogenic microbes such as viruses, Shigella, Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae, etc. Due to this effect, these probiotics are often used to treat diarrhea caused by intestinal infections.

This classification of probiotics is necessary for selecting the optimal drug for the treatment of various types of intestinal microflora disorders.

Depending on the composition of the drug, all probiotics are divided into the following groups:

• Monocomponent - contain only one strain of bacteria (for example, Bifidumbacterin, Lactobacterin, Colibacterin, etc.);
• Multicomponent - contain several varieties of bacteria (usually 2 - 3). Examples of multicomponent probiotics are Bifilong (2 types of bacteria), Bifinorm (3 types), Acylact (3 types), Acipol (2 types), Bifidin (2 types), Linex (3 types), Bifiform (3 types), Polybacterin (3 type);
• Combined (synbiotics) - contain bacteria of normal microflora and any substances that create optimal conditions for these microorganisms, for example, Kipacid (lactobacillus + immunoglobulins), Bifiliz (bifidobacteria + lysozyme), Bioflor (Escherichia coli + soybean and propolis extract);
• Sorptive - contain bacteria of normal microflora in combination with enterosorbents, for example, Bifidobacterin-forte, Probiofor, Bificol forte, Ecoflor;
• Recombinant - contain genetically modified bacteria into which a gene with certain characteristics has been implanted, for example, Subalin.

Various types of probiotics are successfully used in the treatment of various types of dysfunction and intestinal diseases.

In addition, there is a classification of probiotics based on the time of their creation:
1. The 1st generation includes drugs containing only one type of bacteria (for example, Bifidobacterin, Lactobacterin, Colibacterin, etc.);
2. The 2nd generation includes self-excreting antagonists (for example, Enterol, Baktisubtil, Biosporin, Sporobacterin, etc.), which are bacteria that do not normally live in the human intestine, but are capable of suppressing the growth and reproduction of pathogenic microbes;
3. The 3rd generation includes drugs containing several types of bacteria (for example, Bifilong, Linex, Bifikol, Acipol, Acilact);
4. 4th generation includes combination drugs containing bacteria and substances that promote their growth (for example, Bifiliz, Kipacid);
5. The 5th generation includes multicomponent preparations containing several types of bacteria and substances that promote their growth (Bifiform).

In addition, all probiotics are divided not only by the quantity and quality of components, but also by the genus of the bacteria included:

• Probiotics containing bifidobacteria (bifido-containing), such as Bifidumbacterin, Bifidumbacterin-forte, Bifiliz, Bifiform, Bifikol, Probifor, etc.;
• Probiotics containing lactobacilli (lacto-containing), such as Lactobacterin, Acipol, Acylact, Linex, Biobakton, Gastrofarm, etc.;
• Probiotics with E. coli (coli-containing), for example, Colibacterin, Bifikol, Bioflor, etc.;
• Probiotics containing bacilli, saccharomyces or enterococci, for example, Bactisubtil, Bactisporin, Sporobacterin, Biosporin, Enterol, etc.

Probiotics, prebiotics, eubiotics - definition and differences

However, at present, no one puts the same meaning into the old terms, and doctors, when they say “eubiotics,” mean probiotics. That is, both terms are used as synonyms. The presence of two options for designating the same thing is due to the fact that in the countries of the former USSR, doctors traditionally used the term “eubiotics,” and their foreign colleagues used probiotics. However, with the advent of contacts, doctors began to use both terms, each of which remained in the lexicon.

Thus, eubiotics and probiotics are the same thing, and they differ from prebiotics in that they are living cultures of microorganisms. And prebiotics are organic compounds that create the best conditions for the growth and reproduction of bacteria from probiotic groups.

Probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotics - definition and differences

Thus, a symbiotic is several probiotics in one preparation. This means that it differs from a probiotic in the quantitative and species composition of microorganisms. And both of them - a symbiotic and a probiotic - differ from a prebiotic in that they contain living microorganisms.

Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics - definition and differences

In addition, there are also probiotic complexes that contain probiotics, prebiotics, sorbents, vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other substances that are beneficial for intestinal function.

Probiotics and prebiotics - medications (list)

To avoid a long list and maintain systematization of probiotics, we will divide them into four large groups:
1. Probiotics that contain only one type of bacteria (monocomponent);
2. Probiotics, which contain several types of bacteria (symbiotics);
3. Preparations that contain probiotics and prebiotics at the same time (synbiotics);
4. Preparations that contain probiotics and sorbents simultaneously (probiotic complexes).

Monocomponent probiotics

• Acylact (lactobacteria);
• Bactisporin (Bacilus subtilus);
• Bactisubtil (Bacilus chereus);
• Biobakton (lactobacteria);
• Biovestin (bifidobacteria);
• Biosporin (Bacilus licheniformus and subtilus);
• Bifidumbacterin (bifidobacteria);
• Bifinorm (bifidobacteria);
• Colibacterin (non-pathogenic types of Escherichia coli);
• Lactobacterin (lactobacteria);
• Narine (lactobacteria);
• Primadophilus (lactobacillus);
• Probiform (bifidobacteria);
• Regulin (lactobacillus);
• Rela Life (lactobacteria);
• Sporobacterin (Bacilus subtilus);
• Flonivin BS (Bacilius chereus);
• Euflorin-L (lactobacteria);
• Euflorin-B (bifidobacteria);
• Effidigest (lactic acid bacteria).

The name of the microorganism that contains this probiotic is given in parentheses.

Symbiotics

• Acidobac (9 types of lactobacilli);
• Acipol (lactobacteria, kefir fungi);
• Bacterial balance (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Biovestin-Lacto (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Bifidin (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Bifidobacterium (bifidobacteria, lactic acid streptococci);
• Bifidobacterin-Multi 1 (5 types of bifidobacteria);
• Bifidobacterin-Multi 2 (6 species of bifidobacteria);
• Bifidobacterin-Multi 3 (6 species of bifidobacteria);
• Bifidum-BAG (bifidibacteria, lactobacilli);
• Bifikol (non-pathogenic types of Escherichia coli, bifidobacteria);
• Bifilong (2 types of bifidobacteria);
• Bifiform (bifidobacteria, enterococci);
• Bifiform baby (bifidobacteria, lactic acid streptococci);
• Bonolact Pro+Biotik (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Bonolact Re+General (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Darm-Symbioten Pasco (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Yogulact and Yogulact forte (lactobacteria and lactic acid streptococcus);
• Linex (lactobacteria, bifidobacteria, enterococci);
• Polybacterin (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Primadophylus Bifidus (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Protozymes (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Santa-Rus-B (lactobacteria, bifidobacteria);
• Symbiolact (bifidobacteria and lactobacilli);
• Trilact (3 types of lactobacilli);
• Florin forte (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli);
• Enterol (Saccharomyces boulardii).

Synbiotics

• Algibif (bifidobacteria and sodium alginate);
• Algilac (lactobacillus and sodium alginate);
• Bion – 3 (lactobacteria, bifidobacteria, vitamins and microelements);
• Bioflor (Escherichia coli + soybean and propolis extract);
• Bifidumbacterin 1000 (bifidobacteria + lactulose);
• Bifilar (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, fructooligosaccharides);
• Biphilis (bifidobacteria + lysozyme);
• Bifistim (bifidobacteria, vitamins, pectin, MCC, fructose) separate forms for children and adults;
• Bifainol (bifidobacteria, eicosapentaenoic, docosahexaenoic fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E);
• Vitabs Bio (Lactobacilli, bromelain, rutin, sea buckthorn fiber);
• Vitabs Bio (Bifidobacteria, bromelain, rutin, sea buckthorn fiber);
• Calsis (lactobacillus, selenium, vitamins E and C, oat bran, citrus fiber);
• Kipacid (lactobacillus + immunoglobulins);
• Maxilac (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, fructooligosaccharides);
• Narine forte (bifidobacteria, vitamins C, PP and B, amino acids);
• Normobact (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, fructooligosaccharides);
• Normoflorin-B (bifidobacteria, lactitol);
• Normoflorin-D (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, lactitol);
• Normoflorin-L (lactobacteria, lactitol);
• Senior (bifidobacteria, vitamins, microelements);
• Flora-Dophilus+FOS (lactobacteria, bifidobacteria, fructooligosaccharides);
• Evitalia (lactobacteria, lactic acid streptococcus, propionobacteria);
• Eubicor (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, dietary fiber and vitamins).

Probiotic complexes

• Bifidumbacterin-forte (bifidobacteria and activated carbon);
• Bifikol forte (bifidobacteria, non-pathogenic types of Escherichia coli, sorbent);
• Probiofor (bifidobacteria, activated carbon);
• Ecoflor (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and SUMS-1 sorbent).

Below is a list of prebiotics that are available in the form of medications and standardized dietary supplements. Numerous non-standardized and untested supplements containing probiotics are not included in the list, since their effect on the condition of the human body, as well as methods for obtaining raw materials and components, are not known.

So, the following drugs are classified as prebiotics:

• Goodluck (lactulose);
• Duphalac (lactulose);
• Importal N (lactitol);
• Inulin (inulin);
• Lactulose syrup (lactulose);
• Lactusan (lactulose);
• Lactofiltrum and Lactofiltrum-Eco (lactulose and lignin sorbent);
• Livoluk PB (lactulose);
• Normaze (lactulose);
• Portalac (lactulose);
• Prelax (lactulose);
• Romphalac (lactulose);
• Stimbifid (oligofructose, inulin, vitamins E, C, PP, B, trace elements selenium and zinc);
• Transulose gel (lactulose);
• Hilak forte (substances produced in the process of life coli, lactobacilli and non-pathogenic streptococci);
• Exportal (lactitol);
• Eubicore (fiber).

Mixtures with probiotics and prebiotics for baby food

• Agusha-1;
• Agusha-2;
• Agusha gold;
• Grandma's basket;
• Lactofidus "Danone";
• Baby with dietary fiber and nucleotides;
• MD cute goat;
• NAS fermented milk "Nestlé";
• NAS 6-12 months with bifidobacteria "Nestlé";
• Nestozen prebio;
• Nutrilak premium;
• Nanny with prebiotics;
• Similac with probiotics;
• Similak Premium;
• Frisolac Gold;
• Hipp Combiotic;
• Humana with prebiotics.

Mixtures with live lactobacilli (NAN Premium, Similak Premium, Agusha Gold) also contain prebiotics.

Hilak forte, Bifiform and Linex are prebiotics or probiotics

Probiotics for the treatment of chronic conditions are usually taken 3 - 4 times a day, 20 - 60 minutes before meals, for 14 - 21 days. If probiotics are taken to treat an acute intestinal infection (diarrhea), then they are taken 4–6 times a day for 2–4 days until stool normalizes. If a probiotic powder is used, then before ingestion it is diluted in warm water, capsules and tablets are simply swallowed with a small amount of liquid. If a person suffers increased acidity gastric juice, then before taking probiotics he needs to drink alkaline mineral water or antacid drugs (for example, Maalox, Almagel, Gastal, etc.).

It is very important to choose the right probiotic to treat a given condition. To select a probiotic, you can use the following simple rules:

• If you suspect viral infection intestines (acute or chronic), it is recommended to take drugs containing lactobacilli (for example, Lactobacterin, Narine, Biobakton, Primadophilus, etc.);
• If bacterial intestinal damage is suspected (acute or chronic), it is recommended to take complex preparations containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria simultaneously (for example, Bacteriobalance, Bifidin, Linex, etc.);
• If you suspect a fungal infection of the intestines and genitals (intestinal and vaginal candidiasis), it is recommended to take medications containing bifidobacteria (for example, Probiform, Biovestin, Bifidumbacterin, etc.).

Probiotics and prebiotics can be used either individually or as part of complex therapy for the following diseases, the presence of which is considered an indication for use:
1. Colon cancer (it is recommended to take prebiotics and 4 types of probiotics);
2. Acute infectious diarrhea (lactobacillus and enterococcus); enterocolitis

Probiotics(eubiotics) are special preparations containing living microorganisms. These bacteria are normally found in the human intestine and perform a number of useful functions - they produce vitamins necessary for the body, protect against toxic influences, and stimulate local immunity. 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 microorganism. For example, these could be crops or. 1st generation drugs are most often used for selective correction of microflora disorders. The medicine can also be prescribed for preventive purposes.
2. 2nd generation drugs. The group of 2nd generation agents includes self-eliminating antagonists. These microorganisms are not included 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 proliferation 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 drugs are combination drugs that contain several beneficial strains. intestinal bacteria. Some medications contain additional nutrients that stimulate the activity of probiotic microorganisms. 3rd generation medications are used for moderate and severe forms of intestinal diseases.
4. 4th generation drugs. Medicines from this group are represented by bifido-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 intestinal microflora. The drugs are used in the presence of 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 medicines has its own indications and features of use. The prescription of a particular drug will depend on the patient’s diagnosis and condition.

List of drugs

1st generation probiotics

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

This same group includes Biobakton and its analogues. Their composition includes acidophilus bacillus, which actively suppresses the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Medicines in this group were developed much later than colibacterin and lactobacterin. Therefore, they are conditionally classified as the first generation, only due to their monocomponent composition.

Probiotics 2nd generation

2nd generation drugs include bacillus spores and yeast-like fungi. Normally they are not found in the human intestine, but when they enter digestive system capable of providing protective effect. It consists in inhibiting the activity of pathogenic microorganisms that multiply in the patient’s intestines.

This group includes flonivin, enterol, biosporin. They are available in the form of lyophilized powders. The preparation contains the microorganism culture itself and nutrients for their activation (dietary fiber, vitamins, microelements, amino acids).

Probiotics 3rd generation

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

The most common Russian analogue of the drug Linex is Acipol– contains lactobacilli and kefir grains. 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. Local application ensures more effective absorption of the components of the product.

4th generation probiotics

The 4th generation group of drugs includes Probifor, Bifidumbacterin forte. They are available in powder or capsule form. The drug contains live 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 dysbiosis or severe intestinal infection.

Contraindications

A contraindication to the use of 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 usually manifests itself food form intoxication. If intolerance to a probiotic is detected, it is recommended to discontinue the drug or replace it with an analogue with a different composition.

When are probiotics prescribed?

• . Probiotics are prescribed when quantitative or qualitative changes are detected in the composition of the intestinal microflora. Such conditions include severe dysbacteriosis.
• . The need for medications occurs with severe infections accompanied by diarrheal syndrome(for example, when ).
• Taking antibiotics. Dysbacteriosis can also be caused by the actions of the patient himself. Violation of the microflora composition is provoked by uncontrolled use of antibiotics. This condition occurs especially often if the patient independently takes the drug and does not comply with the dosage.
• . This condition is associated with impaired peristalsis in the intestinal wall, which leads to the development of severe diarrhea. Treatment of the disease must be comprehensive and versatile. One of its components is the administration of probiotics to restore normal microflora.

Is it possible to take probiotics for prevention?

The preventive use of probiotics should be rational. It is prescribed to patients who are undergoing 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 microflora with a risk of developing intestinal pathology.

Uncontrolled use of preparations containing probiotic bacteria is not recommended.

If the patient does not have dysbiosis, then there is no need for additional “population” of the intestines. Bacteria from the drug may not reach the habitat or may not take root there due to increased competition with existing symbionts. In this case, therapy will be pointless.

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 normal intestinal flora and maintain its activity.

Probiotics in foods

Beneficial living microorganisms are found in many foods:

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

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