What is the difference between yellow almagel and green

Understanding the types of Almagel

The drug has been known for quite a long time to almost everyone who has encountered problems with the stomach and intestines. The packaging is green, the medicine itself is a white suspension with a sweetish taste and lemon aroma. For a long time, Almagel was practically the only prescribed antacid for gastritis, duodenitis, peptic ulcers and other gastrointestinal diseases.

Over time, the line was replenished with drugs of a slightly different composition, with various additional properties. The trademark of all drugs in the line belongs to the international pharmaceutical holding Actavis; countries of origin may differ. The following varieties of Almagel are available on the Russian pharmaceutical market:

1. The previously mentioned “simple” Almagel. A white suspension with a sweet taste and lemon aroma. The drug presented on the Russian market is produced in Russia. Available in 170 ml dark glass bottles. Packaged in a green cardboard box, which comes with a 5 ml measuring spoon.

   
   "Regular" 170 ml

2. Almagel A is also a suspension, it tastes and smells like regular, but differs in composition (it contains Anestezin). Produced by the Bulgarian company Balkanpharma-Troyan. Also available in dark glass bottles of 170 ml. Packaged in a yellow cardboard box with a measuring spoon.

   
   "A" 170 ml

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3. Almagel NEO. This medicine has an updated composition that improves its tolerability. It is also a suspension of sweet taste and white color. Orange aroma. Also produced in Bulgaria. Available in two dosage forms: a dark glass bottle of 170 ml in a box with a measuring spoon and disposable sachets of 10 ml in a pack of 10 pieces. Packaging color is orange.

The variety of forms of this medicine is dictated by the existence of various clinical situations in which it is prescribed. Each drug has its own niche where its use is most justified.

There is information on the Internet about the tablet form of Almagel and that all types of the drug are available in sachets. They are registered and approved for sale in other countries (Ukraine, Kazakhstan), since they are produced by an international holding company. They do not yet have registration in Russia.

Almagel A

Almagel A is similar in its description to the previous remedy. The drugs differ from each other in packaging color and composition. Yellow Almagel (with the letter “A” in the name) contains an anesthetic – benzocaine, which has a long-term analgesic effect.

Indications for use of the product are similar:

• exacerbation of gastritis, peptic ulcer and severe abdominal pain;
• duodenitis, enterocolitis;
• reflux esophagitis, functional digestive disorder;
• hiatal hernia.

A single dose is 1-3 scoops, which should be drunk 30 minutes before eating and immediately before bed. The medicine is also not prohibited for children (up to 10 years, 1/3 spoon three times a day, over this age - 2.5 ml).

Difference in composition

Features of the use of Almagels are associated with their composition. Despite the fact that they all belong to the same group, the indications and contraindications for their use are somewhat different. This is due to the difference in the ratio of magnesium and aluminum hydroxides in their composition, as well as the presence of additional components. The table shows the comparative composition of a single dose (5 ml) of Almagel and its varieties.

Comparative table of compositions

As can be seen from the table, Anestezin, a drug with a local anesthetic effect, has been added to Almagel A. Otherwise their composition is identical.

In Almagel NEO, due to an almost fourfold increase in the amount of magnesium hydroxide, the ratio of magnesium and aluminum ions has been changed in favor of magnesium. This quite significantly changes the properties of the drug. In addition, it contains simethicone. It reduces the amount of gas in the intestines.

Analogues, cost

Patients have a question about how much Almagel costs. In November 2020, the cost of the drug is:

• Almagel suspension for internal use – 170-210 rubles.
• Almagel A suspension for internal use – 180-250 rubles.
• The cost of Almagel Neo ranges from 190 to 300 rubles.

In order to purchase Almagel, a prescription is not required.

If it is necessary to select an analogue drug, you can discuss with your doctor the possibility of using Maalox , Alumag , Anacid Forte , Gastracid , Rivolox .

Which to choose?

Indications for the use of regular and Almagel A are not fundamentally different. The clinical feature of the latter is that it is more indicated for stomach pain and heartburn. Due to its local anesthetic effect, an analgesic effect is manifested. If the pain is spastic in nature or caused by a purulent process, there will be no analgesic effect.

The difference in the use of “old” Almagels and the new form of the medicine - Almagel NEO is due to the difference in the action of magnesium and aluminum. The differences in biological effects are presented in the table.

Action of main components

The table shows that the adsorbing, enveloping and cytoprotective effect of aluminum exceeds those of magnesium. Acid neutralizing - comparable. This makes the use of aluminum hydroxide (at first glance) preferable. But there are other points:

• aluminum has an astringent effect, which can cause constipation when used, while magnesium, on the contrary, has a laxative effect;
• The indications for NEO do not include enteritis, since this disease is usually accompanied by loose stools.

The use of Almagel NEO is more appropriate for those patients who are prone to constipation, or if constipation appeared as a side effect of “simple” Almagel. In addition, the use of this type of drug is more justified in conditions accompanied by bloating.

Adverse reactions

Almagel's instructions indicate that the drug can promote the development of:

• constipation, which is eliminated by reducing the dose of the medicine;
• hypermagnesemia;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps;
• taste disturbances;
• allergic reactions;
• osteomalacia (due to long-term use);
• Long-term use of the medication may affect the mood and mental performance of patients with a history of kidney problems.

Almagel Neo can additionally provoke the development of thirst and a decrease in blood pressure in patients with a history of renal failure.

Composition and action

The composition of the drug includes the active substance and auxiliary components. It is the active components that determine the therapeutic effect of all forms of Almagel.

Almagel

Qualitative composition of the suspension: aluminum hydroxide gel (algeldrate) and magnesium hydroxide paste. Both components have an absorbent effect. They absorb substances that negatively affect the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. Another therapeutic effect of these components is an enveloping effect. A powerful protective barrier is created on the surface of the stomach walls, facilitating uniform distribution of the medicine. This protective layer ensures long-lasting action of the active components.

Aluminum and magnesium hydroxide have a neutralizing effect on hydrochloric acid in the lumen of the stomach, resulting in the formation of aluminum and magnesium chloride. Subsequently, passing through the intestines, they are modified into alkaline salts. The proteolytic activity of pepsin decreases, and the environment becomes less aggressive. This is how the antacid effect of the medication manifests itself. The ability to digest hydrochloric acid decreases and, accordingly, its adverse effect on the walls of the gastric tract decreases. Accelerated healing of erosive and ulcerative lesions occurs due to the elimination of negative factors. Another advantage is the absence of such a phenomenon as “acid rebound”.

All aluminum compounds, including algeldrate, are characterized by a fixing effect. Magnesium hydroxide, on the contrary, manifests itself as an osmotic laxative, increasing the amount of water in the stool, accelerating its passage through the intestines. Sorbitol helps increase the secretion of bile, which has a laxative effect. Thus, these 2 substances complement each other, eliminating unpleasant consequences and causing normal stool.

Almagel A

The only difference between Almagel A and the base suspension is that benzocaine is added to the main components. This is a local anesthetic.

Thanks to this substance, the patient has a pronounced and rapid analgesic effect. Benzocaine, entering the gastrointestinal tract, blocks the conduction of nerve impulses, so pain and discomfort disappear.

It should be remembered that the duration of use of this type of medication is limited due to the side effects inherent in painkillers.

Almagel Neo

This type differs from the usual one in that it contains the additional component simethicone. This element belongs to the group of carminatives, and according to its chemical structure it is an organosilicon compound.

Simethicone reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles in the digestive system, stimulating their rapid destruction and making further formation more difficult. Next, the released gases are absorbed into the intestinal wall and removed by peristalsis. This type of suspension acts gently and delicately, relieving dyspeptic disorders.

Indications for use

Indications for use of all types of Almagel are similar, with the exception of a few points.

The use of antacid suspensions is prescribed:

• for the treatment of acute or chronic gastritis with normal or increased levels of hydrochloric acid;
• in the treatment of ulcerative manifestations of the stomach and duodenum during periodic exacerbations;
• for carrying out preventive measures;
• in the complex treatment of esophagitis, duodenitis, enteritis, hernia;
• to relieve food intoxication;
• to protect the walls of the stomach from the negative effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

In addition, green Almagel is recommended for stomach disorders. This is the best option for heartburn attacks, to eliminate discomfort after poor nutrition or the influence of harmful factors.

Doctors prescribe yellow Almagel A in cases where the pain symptom is pronounced, accompanied by vomiting and nausea. When intense pain subsides and accompanying symptoms disappear, the patient is recommended to switch to the classic suspension.

Simply Almagel

The drug belongs to the group of antacids that protect the walls of the stomach from damage. It is recommended to take it for acute pain in the stomach or an attack of heartburn. As a rule, the effect of taking the drug occurs after 5 minutes and lasts up to one and a half hours.

Information! Green Almagel is one of the safe drugs, since its substances are not absorbed into the bloodstream and do not cause systemic reactions.

Indications for use of the product in green packaging:

• chronic forms of gastritis, esophagitis;
• food infections;
• hiatal hernia;
• enteritis;
• stomach ulcer;
• duodenitis.

According to the instructions for use of Almagel, the suspension is taken half an hour before eating, and it is not recommended to drink it with water. Frequency of use – 2-3 times a day. You can drink Almagel during pregnancy, but not longer than three days for an analgesic effect. Long-term therapy can harm the unborn child and the woman herself. The drug interferes with the normal absorption of nutrients and vitamins.

For adults and children

The product is available in the form of a suspension. Adults should drink 1-3 scoops three times a day: twice in 30 minutes. before meals and at night. If after some time there is no improvement, you can increase the dosage - take three spoons.

When used in a child under 10 years of age, the dosage of the drug will be three times less than for an adult: you are allowed to drink 1 measuring spoon per day. Children from 10-15 years old can take 8 spoons per day. Shake the bottle well before use

The medication can be combined with other drugs: antisecretory drugs, antibiotics, bismuth derivatives. It is recommended to be used as a prophylaxis for exacerbations of gastritis and GERD. To do this, drink 1-3 teaspoons half an hour before meals.

About how and in what dosages the medicine is taken in childhood or adulthood, for various diseases, read the article - how to take Almagel.

Mode of application

Almagel comes in the form of a suspension and tablets. Before using the suspension, be sure to shake the contents of the bottle so that it acquires a homogeneous composition.

The required dosage of the drug is determined by the gastroenterologist depending on the age of the patient and the severity of the disease itself. Adults are prescribed 5 to 10 ml. a single dose of the drug three times a day. Twice before meals 30 minutes, and drink the last part before bedtime. If after some time the patient’s condition does not improve, the dosage is increased. The maximum allowable amount per day should not exceed 80 ml. (16 scoops).

Pediatric Dosage Recommendations

The dosage of Almagel for children should be strictly determined by a doctor. Below are just recommendations.

• Children under 10 years old: 1.7-3.5 ml.
• Children aged 10-15 years: 2.5-5 ml.
• Teenagers over 15 years old: 5-10 ml.

Use by adults

The Almagel suspension begins to act within 5 minutes, and the therapeutic effect lasts up to 2 hours. The liquid can be drunk only 30 minutes after taking the antacid. If, in addition to this medicine, you take other medications, it is recommended to maintain an interval of at least one hour between doses. During treatment, it is not advisable to take antibiotics, antihistamines and heart medications.

Almagel A is taken in the same way as classic Almagel in green packaging. The instructions indicate the following indications: exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers, enteritis, duodenitis, exacerbation of acute and chronic gastritis, diaphragmatic hernia, acid reflux, colitis, indigestion, epigastric pain due to poor nutrition, diabetes. If you have severe, acute pain, nausea and vomiting, then a suspension with an anesthetic is better for therapy.

Almagel Neo is prescribed an hour after meals in a dosage of 5 ml. — this is the whole difference between this drug and others from the Almagel series. You can drink up to 60 ml per day. It differs from other drugs in its orange flavor. Allowed for children over 10 years old only in an amount of 5 ml. for one appointment.

Almagel for gastritis with high acidity

Treatment of gastritis, if it has high acidity, can also be carried out with this medicine. The active ingredients of the drug neutralize the activity of hydrochloric acid. It begins to act within 3 or 5 minutes after administration, and helps within 70-80 minutes. If the patient takes the medicine after eating, it works for another 2 or 3 hours. Its components are practically not absorbed into the blood, so its use is harmless and does not affect other organs and systems in any way.

There are three types of medicine for gastritis:

• Almagel;
• Almagel A;
• Almagel Neo.

And all of them are approved for use in stomach pathologies. You need to know what the difference is between the three forms of this medication. Since the main active ingredients are the same, the differences are in the additional substances.

Almagel A has an analgesic component added, so this form is recommended for people with severe stomach pain. Almagel Neo contains a carminative substance that helps with increased gas formation. The bottle should be shaken before use. After administration, the suspension should not be washed down with water or other liquid, as the medicine will simply be washed off from the walls of the stomach and will not have a therapeutic effect. After taking Almagel, you need to lie down for a while.

In order for the stomach walls to be fully treated with the drug, it is recommended to turn first on one side, then on the other. Simultaneous use of Almagel with antibiotics, antihistamines and cardiac glycosides is not acceptable, as the effect of the listed drugs is reduced. For people with high acidity, Almagel is a salvation.

special instructions

The medicine is produced in the form of a suspension - a gel, which ensures its rapid and uniform distribution throughout the digestive system. The antacid begins to act gently, creating reliable protection and not leading to a sharp decrease in acidity, so problems with food digestion are excluded.

If the drug is taken for a long time, phosphorus deficiency may occur because it is able to remove it from the body. Therefore, the lack of phosphorus must be compensated for with special preparations or a balanced diet.

Almagel Neo contains alcohol. For this reason, it should be taken with caution by people who have impaired liver function, are alcohol dependent, or suffer from epilepsy. The presence of alcohol does not affect concentration or reaction speed in any way. It is prescribed even to patients whose activities require perseverance and attentiveness.

Patients with fructose intolerance are not recommended to be treated with this medicine, as it contains sorbitol. It can cause mucosal irritation and diarrhea in this category of people.

Side effects

Side effects occur in isolated cases if the doctor’s instructions are not followed. Typically this is:

• allergic manifestations;
• nausea and vomiting;
• change in taste sensations;
• pain and spasms in the epigastrium;
• drowsiness and thirst;
• constipation or diarrhea.

When a patient suffers from renal failure and consumes high doses of the suspension, this can lead to negative effects that are significantly different from other consequences. These include:

• the appearance of edema;
• an increase in the concentration of magnesium and aluminum in the blood, and calcium in the urine;
• pressure drop;
• dementia and encephalopathy.

Possibility of overdose

Long-term therapy in large doses of Almagel Neo may differ from treatment with other types of the drug in the occurrence of an overdose. The main symptoms are: increased fatigue and nervousness, changeable mood, slow breathing, numbness and muscle pain, inadequate reaction to events, hyperemia (redness) of the face. To eliminate such negative signs, you need to cleanse the body of excess medication.

Measures such as gastric lavage, inducing vomiting, laxatives and sorbents are given.

Contraindications

It is necessary to take into account possible contraindications of Almagel. The drug is not used for:

• individual intolerance to the active or auxiliary substances of the drug;
• severe forms of renal failure;
• for Alzheimer's disease and hypophosphatemia;
• treatment of patients under 10 years of age;
• congenital fructose intolerance;
• treatment of pregnant women.

Particular caution is required when using the drug in the treatment of nursing women, children and adolescents, patients with liver dysfunction, alcoholism, traumatic brain injuries and brain diseases, and epilepsy.