Each of us has situations in our lives that, when superimposed on one another, give rise to long periods of nervous tension and physical fatigue. You can’t envy our condition at such moments, and it’s not easy for our loved ones. Constant breakdowns over trifles, lack of strength and desire to do anything, headaches and poor sleep, breathing problems, arrhythmia - these are just a small part of the consequences of inattention to your body and a powerful signal that it’s time to take charge of your own health. As a rule, the reason for this situation is twofold: on the one hand, psychological (stress, nerves), on the other, physiological (lack of vitamins, physical overload). Therefore, the problem needs to be dealt with comprehensively. If we take into account numerous reviews, Berocca is just such a comprehensive tool. We will analyze its composition and effect on the body in this article, and also consider the opinions of doctors about the appropriateness and effectiveness of using this drug.
The drug "Berocca": general description
This remedy is a complex of vitamins and minerals necessary to replenish the most important substances for psychological health and good immunity. So to speak, a pill for nerves with positive side effects. The drug is designed to normalize the content of vitamins B and C in the body, as well as to compensate for the deficiency of important minerals - calcium and magnesium.
The complex is produced in two forms: these are effervescent vitamins “Berocca”, reviews of which can be found most often, and film-coated tablets “Berocca Plus”. These products are aimed at solving the same problem and have a very similar composition, but there are still a few noticeable differences. Both contain vitamins B (1, 2, 6 and 12), C, magnesium and calcium, pantothenic acid, biotin and nicotinamide. However, the coated tablets are also supplemented with zinc and folic acid, while they contain half as much vitamin C. The choice of a specific tool depends on your ultimate goals. If we take into account medical reviews, “Berocca Plus” is aimed at thorough treatment and has a longer action, while the effervescent form of the vitamin complex has a fairly quick but short-term effect.
Mechanism of action
Berocca Plus is intended to replenish the deficiency of ascorbic acid and B vitamins, to eliminate the symptoms of hypovitaminosis and prevent their development. The main antioxidants included in the drug regulate the activity of free radicals and prevent them from damaging healthy tissues.
- Ascorbic acid strengthens the vascular system, participates in metabolic processes, absorption of nutrients, reduces inflammatory reactions, helps increase immunity, physical strength during intense exercise and nervous tension.
- B vitamins ensure the normal functioning of the central and autonomic nervous system, participate in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, the synthesis of nerve fibers, muscle tissue and mucous membranes, regulate the absorption of fats and proteins, and reduce the risk of cancer.
- Calcium, zinc and magnesium are involved in the processes of basal metabolism, responsible for the production of enzymes and hormones, the synthesis of connective and bone tissue.
These vitamins and minerals do not accumulate in the body, but are consumed continuously, so the supply of these substances from the outside is constantly required. Berocca Plus is an optimally formulated drug, one tablet of which contains a daily dose of ascorbic acid, pyridoxine and a large number of other important elements. This is an excellent additional source of compounds necessary for the body in conditions of poor nutrition, increased nervous and physical stress, and during seasonal diseases.
Berocca remedy: effect on the body
As a rule, this drug is purchased in order to strengthen the immune system and replenish vitamins in the body, especially in the spring. It is available without a prescription, so many people prescribe it themselves or on the recommendation of a pharmacist. However, solving these problems is just the tip of the iceberg, and the basis for taking it is precisely the restoration of psychological health, relief from stress and prolonged nervous tension. For these purposes, the drug is often prescribed by doctors themselves, citing its high effectiveness with a fairly gentle effect on the human body.
How did the Berocca complex deserve such a loyal attitude? Reviews from doctors are based on observation of their patients who took this remedy, and indicate that it can be quite effective. After just two weeks of regularly taking effervescent tablets, many experienced noticeable improvements: energy levels increased, weakness and constant fatigue disappeared. A number of patients especially praised the Berocca remedy for getting rid of insomnia and reducing irritability during the day. Some of the conditions such as apathy, sleep disturbances, and anxiety are caused by a lack of magnesium in the body. The drug "Berocca" contains this element in an amount sufficient to increase it to the required level (100 mg). And in combination with other substances, its effect is only enhanced.
In addition, a vitamin-mineral complex can very quickly (especially effervescent tablets) compensate for the lack of necessary elements caused by an unbalanced diet, taking antibiotics and even a course of chemotherapy. It will also be useful during recovery after getting rid of alcohol and nicotine addiction, helping to return the body to a full life.
Berocca Plus
Trade name: Berocca Plus International name: Multivitamins + Minerals & (Multivitamins + Multimineral) Pharmacological group: multivitamin + minerals Pharmacological group according to ATC: A11AA03. Multivitamins with other minerals and their combinations Pharmacological action: multivitamin, hematopoietic, metabolic Pharmacodynamics: Combined drug, the pharmacological action of which is determined by the complex of vitamins and microelements included in its composition. B vitamins are involved in many metabolic reactions (including the synthesis of neurotransmitters). Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a biological antioxidant and plays an important role in the inactivation of free radicals, increases the absorption of iron in the small intestine, and affects the metabolism of folic acid and the function of leukocytes. Stimulates the formation of connective tissue, bone tissue, normalizes capillary permeability. Calcium takes part in many physiological processes, enzyme systems and nerve impulse transmission in combination with magnesium and vitamin B6. Magnesium is involved in various reactions, including protein synthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and sugar oxidation. Zinc as a catalyst activates more than 200 enzymes and is a component of many proteins, hormones, neuropeptides, hormonal receptors, and is also directly involved in the synthesis of coenzymes derived from vitamin B6. The content of vitamins in Berocca Plus has been selected for therapeutic use in conditions accompanied by a deficiency or increased need for vitamins (increased physical activity, during periods of prolonged nervous strain and stress, with poor and unbalanced nutrition (restrictive diets), in the elderly, with chronic alcoholism, nicotine addiction (in smokers), as well as when using oral contraceptives in women).
Water-soluble vitamins do not accumulate in the body, therefore, in conditions accompanied by an increased need for vitamins and minerals, the amount of vitamins supplied from food may be insufficient.
Indications for use: Deficiency or conditions accompanied by an increased need for B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, hypercalcemia, hypermagnesemia, urolithiasis (nephrolithiasis, urolithiasis), hemochromatosis, hyperoxaluria, renal dysfunction, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, children under 15 years of age.
With caution: Atrophic gastritis, intestinal diseases, pancreatic diseases, vitamin B12 malabsorption syndrome or congenital intrinsic factor deficiency.
Dosage regimen: Inside, with water. Adults and children over 15 years old - 1 tablet. in a day. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of the drug. The recommended course duration is 30 days. Repeated courses of treatment are recommended by a doctor.
Side effects: Allergic reactions: in very rare cases (Digestive system: in less than 5% of patients, mild transient gastrointestinal disorders are possible. Blood and hematopoietic system: in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, ascorbic acid can cause hemolytic anemia.
Overdose: Symptoms: gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea and discomfort in the stomach are possible. Excessive intake of vitamin B6 (more than 20 tablets per day and for several months) can lead to symptoms of neuropathy. In case of overdose, you should stop taking the drug and consult a doctor.
Interaction: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) in doses greater than 5 mg may counteract the effects of levodopa in patients with parkinsonism. However, such antagonism is not observed if levodopa is used in combination with a decarboxylase inhibitor (eg benserazide, carbidopa). Thiosemicarbazone and 5-fluorouracil neutralize the effect of vitamin B1. Antacids inhibit the absorption of vitamin B1. Neomycin, aminosalicylic acid and H2 blockers reduce the absorption of vitamin B12. Aspirin reduces the absorption of ascorbic acid by approximately one third. Oral contraceptives may reduce serum levels of vitamin B12, folic acid, pyridoxine, and ascorbic acid. Some patients taking deferoxamine and vitamin C 500 mg daily may experience transient left ventricular dysfunction.
Cautions: Vitamin C may affect urine glucose test results even though it does not affect blood sugar levels. Vitamin C should be stopped several days before such tests. Urine may turn bright yellow, which has no clinical significance and is explained by the presence of riboflavin in the drug. The drug does not contain fat-soluble vitamins. 1 tablet of the drug contains the maximum daily dose of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), so you should not exceed the recommended dose of the drug. One tablet contains 12.5% of the recommended daily intake of calcium and 33.3% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium. However, for the treatment of calcium and magnesium deficiency, taking Berocca Plus alone is not sufficient. In 1 table. The drug contains 25 mg of mannitol, 94 mg of lactose monohydrate and 13.44 mg of dextrose, which corresponds to 0.02 bread unit (XU) and has an energy value of 0.143 kcal, so the drug can be taken by patients with diabetes. Patients taking other drugs should consult their doctor before starting to take Berocca Plus. Does not affect the ability to drive a car or move machinery.
When using the drug Berocca Plus in the recommended dosage, there is no evidence of a negative effect of the drug on the course of pregnancy or the health of the child. However, during pregnancy the drug should be taken strictly for medical reasons. The vitamins and minerals contained in Berocca Plus pass into breast milk. There is no data on the safety of the drug when used during lactation.
Manufacturer: Bayer Sante Familiale, France Registration certificate holder: Bayer Consumer Care AG, Switzerland Release forms: effervescent tablets, aluminum cylinders, effervescent tablets, polypropylene cylinders, effervescent tablets, cylinders Ingredients: ascorbic acid 500 mg, betacarotene 40 mg, biotin 150 mcg , calcium carbonate 97.69 mg and calcium pantothenate 2.31 mg [in terms of calcium 100 mg, equivalent to 2.3 mg of pantothenic acid], magnesium carbonate 49 mg and magnesium sulfate dihydrate 51 mg [in terms of magnesium 100 mg], nicotinamide 50 mg, pyridoxine hydrochloride 10 mg, riboflavin sodium phosphate 20.51 mg [equiv. 15 mg riboflavin], monophosphothiamin 18.54 mg [equiv. 15 mg thiamine], folic acid 400 mcg, cyanocobalamin 10 mcg, zinc citrate trihydrate 10 mg [equiv. 10 mg zinc] Duration shelf life: 2 years Registration data: LS-001948 dated 08/27/2010, 08/25/2006 Status of the registration certificate: valid Pharmaceutical article number: ND 42-14067-06
Manufacturer: Delpharm Gaillard, France Holder of the registration certificate: Bayer JSC Release forms: film-coated tablets, PVC/PE/PVDC/A1 blister Registration data: LS-001921 dated 08/24/2010 Status of the registration certificate: valid Pharmaceutical article number: LS-001921 -241212
Manufacturer: Roche Farma SA, Spain Registration certificate holder: Bayer Consumer Care AG, Switzerland Release forms: film-coated tablets, blister packs, film-coated tablets, Ingredients: ascorbic acid 500 mg, biotin 150 mcg, calcium carbonate 97.69 mg and calcium pantothenate 2.31 mg [in terms of calcium 100 mg, eq. 2.3 mg of pantothenic acid], magnesium carbonate 30.6 mg and magnesium oxide 69.4 mg [in terms of magnesium 100 mg], nicotinamide 50 mg, pyridoxine hydrochloride 10 mg, riboflavin 15 mg, thiamine mononitrate 14.57 mg [equiv. 15 mg of thiamine], folic acid 400 mcg, cyanocobalamin 10 mcg, zinc citrate trihydrate 10 mg [eq. 10 mg of zinc] Shelf life: 3 years Registration data: LS-001921 dated 08.24.2010, 18.08 .2006 Status of the registration certificate: valid Pharmaceutical article number: ND 42-14066-06
The result of using Berocca vitamins
This complex is designed for short-term complex treatment, which should be carried out at least twice a year (or as needed). Initially, you can take a week-long course of “vitaminization” by purchasing Berocca effervescent tablets. They dissolve easily in water, and the resulting drink has a pleasant orange flavor. Don’t be surprised if you feel the effects of vitamins almost instantly. They instantly energize the body, which is why doctors recommend taking the tablets in the morning (you are guaranteed a boost of energy for the day). However, this effect is short-term, and the effect of taking vitamins disappears almost immediately after the end of the course (if we talk about any pronounced effect).
How to take the drug: instructions
For one course of prevention and replenishment of vitamin deficiency, 30 Berocca Plus tablets are required. They should be taken simultaneously with food, preferably in the morning. Coated pills should be swallowed whole, without chewing, with water or drinks. Effervescent tablets must first be diluted in 100–150 ml of liquid and the resulting drug must be consumed all at once. The daily dose of the complex is 1 tablet.
It is not recommended to exceed the specified amount, since excess water-soluble vitamins are eliminated from the body without being stored in reserve. For the most complete absorption of the components of the complex, additional intake of fat-soluble vitamins is recommended: retinol, tocopherol, D3.
Coated tablets: features
The Berocca Plus complex has a longer and more stable effect. Reviews from those who have taken it indicate that the drug really restores the exhausted nervous system, strength appears (including physical strength), and well-being significantly improves. The course lasts 30 days, and the results last much longer. Let's see what these vitamins are capable of, according to doctors:
- stimulate metabolism in tissues (nervous and muscle);
- improve the functioning of the nervous system, provide favorable conditions for the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles;
- relieve nervous tension and irritability;
- help with insomnia, overwork and chronic fatigue.
All this is possible thanks to the replenishment of substances missing in the body, including important minerals, which Berocca vitamins fully supply it with. Reviews are numerous from both specialists and patients, and therefore deserve trust.
Contraindications for taking the drug and its side effects
As you have already noticed, doctors are loyal to this drug. It is not surprising, because it is effective despite the fact that it is not even a drug. These are vitamins that have a gentle effect and heal the body. However, they should not be taken thoughtlessly. Doctors strongly recommend that you first undergo a comprehensive examination and consult a specialist, and only then resort to taking this complex. According to them, the result of rash actions can have very unpleasant consequences. These are digestive disorders, the appearance of rashes and hives, as well as swelling of the larynx. Hemolytic anemia cannot be excluded in case of deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.
In addition, doctors give warnings regarding the use of the drug. Berocca should not be taken if you have the following problems:
- renal dysfunction, urolithiasis;
- hemochromatosis and hyperoxaluria;
- increased levels of calcium or magnesium in the body;
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
Diseases of the intestines, pancreas, gastritis and other health problems are grounds for careful use of the product. Experts believe that dispensing this vitamin-mineral complex without a prescription may not work in favor of some patients who do not carefully study the instructions for the drug. Therefore, the first thing you should do is consult with a specialist.
Contraindications and side effects
Berocca Plus is intended for adults. It is not recommended for children under 15 years of age to avoid overdose and intoxication with the components. It is also necessary to refuse therapy:
- during pregnancy, breastfeeding;
- for urolithiasis, kidney inflammation;
- for peptic ulcers and gastritis during exacerbation;
- with intolerance to fructose and citric acid (for effervescent forms);
- for violations of the absorption of vitamins in the intestines.
When using the product, your urine may turn bright yellow. This is a normal reaction to riboflavin. Possible negative consequences of taking it include: dizziness, nausea, epigastric pain, drowsiness, and unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Signs of an allergic reaction: swelling of the mucous membranes, itching, urticaria, conjunctivitis.
