Smecta, a well-known treatment for diarrhoea, is often the first response to digestive problems. Composed mainly of diosmectite, this remedy in the form of a powder for drinkable suspension is generally prescribed to compensate for fluid loss and restore intestinal balance. However, in our search fornatural alternatives, we are exploring solutions available in pharmacies that offer similar effectiveness without the chemical constraints.
Smecta is a classic and effective treatment for diarrhoea in both adults and children. Part of the family of digestive dressings, Smecta comes in the form of a powder for drinkable suspension, usually flavoured, such as the strawberry-flavoured variety. Each sachet contains 3 g of diosmectite, an active agent which plays a crucial role in stabilising the intestinal mucosa.
What is Smecta used for?
Diosmectite, the active ingredient in Smecta, is a magnesium aluminium silicate. Its structure enables it to adhere to the digestive mucosa, forming a protective barrier against various irritants. In addition to diosmectite, Smecta also contains glucose and other excipients. These ingredients are generally used to improve the taste, making it easier to take, especially for children.
When should you take Smecta?
The dosage of Smecta varies according to age and the severity of the diarrhoea:
- For adults: Take three sachets a day at the start of treatment. However, you can double the dosage for the first few days depending on the severity of the symptoms. Thereafter, you can reduce the dose to two sachets a day.
- For children over the age of 2: Generally, start treatment with four sachets a day for three days, then reduce to two sachets a day.
The duration of treatment should generally not exceed 7 days. We recommend dissolving the powder in a glass of water for adults and in a 50 ml bottle of water for infants and young children, to ensure effective and appropriate intake.
Advice and precautions
- Hydration: Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, particularly in children and the elderly. It is vital to compensate for this loss of fluids by drinking plenty of fluids (water, salted broths, sweetened drinks).
- Diet: During the period of diarrhoea, it is advisable to follow a light diet based on easily digestible foods such as bananas, potatoes, rice, pasta or compotes. Foods rich in fibre, raw fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs, dairy products and iced drinks should be avoided.
- Drug interactions: Smecta may affect the absorption of certain medicines. We therefore recommend that you leave at least 2 hours between taking Smecta and other treatments.
- Side-effects: Although rare, certain side-effects may occur, such as constipation, bloating or allergic reactions. In the event of constipation, a reduction in dosage may be necessary.
- Medical advice: If symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen, it is important to consult a doctor. Similarly, diarrhoea accompanied by fever, blood in the stools or signs of severe dehydration requires immediate medical attention.
Thanks to its composition and mode of action, Smecta offers an effective solution for the symptomatic treatment of acute and chronic diarrhoea. What’s more, patients generally tolerate it well. However, it should always be used as part of an overall approach to treating diarrhoea, including hydration and appropriate dietary measures.
What natural alternatives are effective against diarrhoea?
In the search for alternatives to Smecta for the treatment of diarrhoea in adults, several products stand out for their effectiveness and natural approach. Among them, Aboca LenoDiar Adult is a promising option.
Aboca LenoDiar Adult is a medical device designed for the treatment of acute diarrhoea and recurrent episodes of chronic diarrhoea. Its effectiveness lies in its unique composition, based on Actitan-P, a molecular complex of plant origin. This complex contains tannins (from agrimony and tormentil) and polyphenols (from olives and turmeric). These are known for their anti-inflammatory and protective properties on the intestinal mucosa. Actitan-P acts by forming a protective film on the mucosa, limiting contact with micro-organisms and irritants, while exerting an antioxidant action against irritation of the mucosa.
When should LenoDiar be taken?
Aboca LenoDiar Adult is indicated in cases of diarrhoea of various origins. For example: viral infections, flu syndromes, iatrogenic diarrhoea due to medication, stress or hormonal changes. We recommend taking 2 capsules 2 to 3 times a day, depending on the severity of the condition. Finally, it is also very important to consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 7 days.
This product stands out for its ability to reduce episodes of diarrhoea while respecting the physiology of the intestine, without causing constipation. It also contributes to the rapid recovery of intestinal function and the rebalancing of the bacterial flora (microbiota). All of this is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing imbalances in the intestinal flora likely to cause a variety of disorders, including bloating, vomiting or other forms of diarrhoea.
To treat diarrhoea comprehensively, we recommend adding probiotics to LenoDiar Adult. This will support and strengthen the natural intestinal flora. This is particularly important in cases of persistent diarrhoea, where an imbalance in the intestinal flora may be involved. Probiotics work by strengthening the natural bacteria present in the body, playing a fundamental role in maintaining our digestive and immune balance.
Natural alternatives to Smecta for adults, available online
| Product | Type | Main indication |
|---|---|---|
| Diaralia Boiron | Homeopathic medicine | Acute diarrhoea |
| Ultrabiotic INSTANT | Food supplement | Acute diarrhoea, rebalancing the intestinal flora |
| Ultra Yeast 200mg | Probiotic | Anti-diarrhoeal treatment, reinforces flora |
| 3C Pharma Diarilium | Food supplement | Frequent liquid stools |
| Inovance Probiovance Instan | Food supplement | Rebalancing the intestinal flora |
Each of these products offers a unique approach to managing the symptoms of diarrhoea and helping to restore intestinal balance. It’s important to choose the right product for your specific symptoms, intensity of diarrhoea and individual digestive health needs.
Natural alternatives to Smecta for children, available from online pharmacies
Diarrhoea in children is a common problem. However, it needs to be treated appropriately to avoid the risk of dehydration and nutritional imbalances. Several treatment options are available, each offering specific benefits.
- Lactéol lactobacillus lb baby infant 340 mg: This medicine is a microbial anti-diarrhoeal. It contains inactivated Lactobacillus LB, which helps to restore the intestinal flora. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 sachets a day. However, depending on the severity of the symptoms, this can be increased to 3 sachets on the first day. It is important to consult a doctor if you see no improvement after 2 days of treatment.
- Ultra levure 100 mg anti-diarrhoea sachets for children: This probiotic helps to rebalance the intestinal flora, and is specially designed for children.
- Pediakid Diaréa 7 Sachets: This dietary supplement for children is formulated to manage episodes of diarrhoea and help rebalance the intestinal flora.
- BABYBIANE Immediate Baby Diarrhoea: Another dietary supplement, specifically for babies, to treat diarrhoea and support intestinal health.
- ABOCA Lenodiar Pediatric Diarrhoea: Suitable for children, this product helps to reduce episodes of diarrhoea and normalise stool consistency, while respecting children’s intestinal physiology.
Dietary supplements for children to combat diarrhoea:
| Product | Type | Main indication |
|---|---|---|
| Lactobacillus lactéol lb baby… | Medicine | Restores intestinal flora, anti-diarrhoea |
| Ultra yeast 100 mg sachets… | Probiotic | Rebalancing the intestinal flora |
| Pediakid Diaréa 7 Sachets | Food supplement | Managing episodes of diarrhoea |
| BABYBIANE Immediate Baby Diarrhoea | Food supplement | Treatment of diarrhoea in babies |
| ABOCA Lenodiar Pediatric… | Food supplement | Reduction of diarrhoea episodes, normalisation of stools |
Each of these options offers a unique mechanism of action for managing diarrhoea in children. We recommend that you consult a doctor before starting any treatment. Especially for young children.
Is herbal medicine a good alternative to Smecta for diarrhoea?
Herbal medicine, known for its natural, holistic approach, is an interesting alternative to conventional treatments such as Smecta for managing diarrhoea. It uses medicinal plants with recognised properties to relieve the symptoms of diarrhoea and boost digestive health. The study carried out in the Amhara region of Ethiopia highlighted plants such as Calpurnia aurea, Verbena officinalis, Coffea arabica and Lepidium sativum. These plants, validated by studies on animal models, show promising efficacy in the treatment of diarrhoea. They therefore offer a therapeutic option that complements synthetic drugs. This research reinforces the idea that phytotherapy can be a valid alternative to Smecta. It also paves the way for the wider integration of these practices into modern medicine.
Green clay: an ancestral remedy
Green clay, which has been used for centuries, offers remarkable benefits in the treatment of digestive disorders. Recognised for its absorbent properties according to scientific studies, it acts by forming a protective barrier on the intestinal mucosa and helps to eliminate toxins. In this way, it makes an effective contribution to soothing the symptoms of diarrhoea.
Use and benefits of Green Clay
- Absorption of toxins: Green clay captures undesirable substances in the intestine.
- Diarrhoea relief: It helps to stabilise stools and reduce inflammation.
Activated vegetable carbon
Activated vegetable charcoal is popular for its ability to absorb impurities and gas in the digestive system. It is often recommended for treating bloating, intestinal gas and as a quick fix for diarrhoea, according to scientific studies.
Properties and instructions for use of Vegetable Charcoal
- Absorption capacity: Effective against bloating and gas.
- Treatment of diarrhoea: Use in capsules or as a powder mixed with water.
FAQ
- When should I take Smecta or a natural alternative?
- At the first signs of diarrhoea, following the specific instructions for each product.
- How can I compensate for fluid loss in the event of acute diarrhoea?
- It is vital to drink enough water or oral rehydration solution to compensate for fluid losses.
- What is diosmectite?
- Diosmectite is the main component of Smecta, used for its protective action on the intestinal mucosa.
- How can I avoid dehydration in the event of digestive problems?
- Drinking regularly and using oral rehydration solutions can help prevent dehydration in the event of digestive problems.
- Natural alternatives: are they effective for all cases of diarrhoea?
- Although natural alternatives are effective for many cases of diarrhoea, it is important to consult a doctor for more severe or persistent cases.
References
- Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2023; 2023: 8173543.
Published online 2023 Nov 25. Review of Medicinal Plants Traditionally Used to Treat Diarrhea by the People in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia
