Even if some of us benefit from an unexpected protection against the noroviruses responsible for gastro, it must be recognized that at this time the risk of catching the virus is at its highest. All the lights are red according to the Sentinel surveillance network. It’s more than ever the time to protect yourself from the spread of the virus by being intractable on hand hygiene.
But we do not guarantee that this will be enough to stay valiant! So, before succumb to gastro, check that you have the correct medications in the medicine cabinet.
Gastro: drugs against vomiting
The drug without a prescription
Vogalib®
It relieves nausea and vomiting.
For who ? For adults but, at half dose, it is also suitable for children. Pregnant women can also follow this treatment.
How to use it ? Melt in the mouth or in a little water 2 to 4 lyophilisates per day, 15 to 20 minutes before meals or at the time of symptoms.
To note : limit treatment to 48 hours.
Doctor’s prescription drugs
Nausicalm®
Dimenhydrate is an antihistamine that fights the urge to vomit. Since 2016, it is no longer available over the counter due to its misuse by some teenagers.
For who ? Especially for children but it is also suitable for adults.
How to use it ? For children 2 to 6 years old, half to one tsp. coffee every 6 to 8 hours. For 6-15 year olds, double the doses and allow about 30 minutes for the product to take full effect. In adults, one to two tbsp. soup every 6 to 8 hours.
Pimperan®
For who ? This drug is contraindicated in children under 18 years of age.
How to use it ?
Respecting an interval of at least 6 hours between doses: 1 to 2 teaspoons 3 times a day, before meals.
Contraindications: not recommended for epileptics. Reduce doses in case of renal or hepatic insufficiency.
Motilium®
For who ? This medication has been banned by the Medicines Agency for children under 12 years of age.
How to use it ?
Before meals: 10 to 20 ml (i.e. 2 to 4 syringes) 3 or 4 times a day.
Read also : I have gastro: what do I eat?
Gastro: medicines for diarrhea
Non-prescription drugs
Smecta®
It contains diosmectite, a clay which, in case of acute diarrhea, protects the mucous membrane and adsorbs toxins. But due to the tiny presence of lead in the clay, Smecta is now prohibited for children under 2 years old.
How to use it ? 1 sachet after each loose stool, but not to exceed 3 sachets per day.
Imossel®
It contains loperamide, which slows down intestinal transit until diarrhea stops.
For who ? Only for adults.
How to use it ? Swallow 2 capsules immediately, then one after each liquid stool, without exceeding 6 to 8 capsules per day. Stop the treatment as soon as everything is back to normal.
To note : This product does not act on the cause of gastroenteritis. It can also delay the elimination of germs by “plug effect”. Do not use it for more than 2 days.
Tiorfast®
The “non-prescription” version of Tiorfan is only reserved for adults.
How to use it ?One capsule immediately at any time, then one capsule three times a day, preferably before meals if you are eating.
prescription drugs
Tiorfan® Adult 100mg, Child 30mg
This racecadotril-based anti-diarrheal reduces intestinal secretions.
For who ? Adults, children. It is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
How to use it ? In adults, take one capsule, 3 times a day. In children from 30 months to 9 years (from 13 to 27 kg): 1 sachet per dose. In children over 9 years old (over 27 kg): 2 sachets per dose.
And against dehydration
Resource®Gelled Water
The gelled water allows you to rehydrate. It contains glucose, sodium, potassium, but no lactose.
For who ? For the elderly or very weak.
How to use it ? Ready to use, this jelly is eaten fresh, with a teaspoon.
To note : the product is sterilized. Several flavors are available: grapefruit, lemon, red fruits, mint, apple-pear…
Read also : 8 tips to stop gastro quickly and well
Gastro: probiotics to replenish the intestinal flora
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that colonize the intestinal flora. In particular, they make it possible to counter the proliferation of harmful micro-organisms which can, for example, cause infectious diarrhoea. They would be useful both in preventive and curative treatment.
They are found in all fermented milk products but they can be taken as food supplements: the concentrations are then much higher.
If symptoms worsen…
Certain signs should alert you in the event of gastroenteritis: systematic vomiting for more than a day, blood or pus in the stools, severe abdominal pain for more than two hours, more than 38.5ºC of fever, signs of dehydration (dryness mouth and skin, less frequent urination and darker urine than usual, irritability, cramps, loss of weight and appetite, weakness, fainting). In this case, you need to consult a doctor.
Read also : Gastro: why does fermented milk do us good?
