Instructions for use of Elkar for children: indications, dosage calculation, how to give to newborns

How to get back into shape after childbirth?

Many women, having seen the coveted two stripes, involuntarily think: “Now I don’t have to limit myself and eat whatever I want - I’ll gain weight anyway.”
They are partly right, because metabolism changes during pregnancy. In addition, the expectant mother must eat for herself and for her baby - which means the portion size increases. However, after giving birth, all the charm of pregnancy goes away, and you involuntarily compare yourself with your own photographs from a year ago. The photos hint, but not fastened jeans and skirts directly state an unpleasant fact - you have gained weight, and quite noticeably.

Most women immediately strive to return to their usual size and again please their husband and themselves with a slender waist and pleasant shape

However, here it is important not to go to extremes and not torment yourself with strict diets and excessive exercises. These radical methods are not very useful in a normal situation, and are completely unacceptable for a young mother

How to lose weight without harm to your health?

How to give to a child and dosage

The drug is prescribed to newborns from the first days of life. In hospital settings it is administered by muscle or intravenous injection. At home they use drops inside. Elkar is given to infants 30 minutes before feeding, after mixing it in a sweet drink - compote, jelly, slightly sweetened water (5% glucose solution).

Starting from 3 years, the doctor can prescribe Elkar in 20 or 30% concentration, calculating the amount of levocarnitine per day and per dose. Use of Elkar for children of other ages:

• 3-6 years – 0.2-0.3 grams of L-carnitine per day for a monthly course;
• 6-12 years – 0.2-0.3 grams of levocarnitine for a month;
• older – 0.4-0.9 grams per day for at least a month.

When purchasing Elkar for infants, you need to pay attention to the dosage - it is recommended to use a drug with a 20% concentration of levocarnitine. Otherwise, it is easy to face an overdose of the drug

Its symptoms are dyspeptic disorders:

• nausea;
• abdominal distension, colic, heaviness in the stomach;
• pain in the epigastric region.

In infants this is expressed in crying, loss of appetite, anxiety, and poor sleep. You need to see a doctor quickly.

When using Elkar for infants strictly according to the proposed scheme, side effects are rarely observed. The drug is considered safe and is prescribed from birth, including for neonatal jaundice. The most common negative effects from taking include:

• development of allergies;
• signs of dyspepsia, mainly associated with overdose;
• mild pain in the epigastric region.

Any symptoms that occur should be reported to your doctor immediately. Elkar is usually used in complex therapy, so a specialist must find out what causes the negative reactions.

It is important to monitor the dosage so as not to lead to adverse reactions

The drug is available in the form of a solution of 20% and 30% for oral administration in bottles of 25, 50 and 100 ml, in the form of a solution for injection, and also in the form of effervescent granules of 5 g for the preparation of a solution.

ELKAR 30% for newborns and children is usually not prescribed due to its alcohol content, and 20% drops are recommended to be mixed into a glucose-containing solution.

In what dosages should children take ELKAR 20%:

• For newborns, take half an hour before meals in a single dose of 30-75 mg (4-10 drops) 2 times a day. Prescribed from the first day of life or on the 5th day for children who have suffered birth trauma and asphyxia, and then for 2-6 weeks (during their stay in the hospital and at home).
• Children under 1 year of age take 75 mg (10 drops) 3 times a day.
• Children from 1 year to 6 years – 100 mg (14 drops) 2-3 times a day. The drug is used as an additive to sweet dishes (jelly, compote, juices).
• Children from 6 to 12 years old - 200-300 mg (28-42 drops) 2-3 times a day.

The duration of treatment with Levocarnitine is 1 month (in case of growth retardation – 20 days). It is allowed to repeat the course of treatment after a short period of time, agreed with the attending physician.

Abdominal pain is the main sign of overdose

Very rarely, in case of a significant overdose of the drug, the development of cramping pain in the stomach, rapid muscle fatigue, as well as symptoms of indigestion, such as:

• heartburn;
• belching;
• feeling of pressure or fullness in the abdomen;
• rumbling;
• diarrhea (read about the causes of loose stools in infants here).

In case of hypersensitivity to the components, allergic reactions may occur:

• rash;
• itching;
• redness of the skin;
• hives.

If you experience the symptoms described for an overdose, you should take activated carbon, based on the calculation: 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight.

In case of a pronounced overdose, you should immediately go to the hospital and undergo a gastric lavage procedure.

The drug Elkar is generally well tolerated by patients. They can be given even to a one-month-old baby. Despite this, if the instructions for use are not followed, some side effects may develop. Negative reactions include:

• Allergies in the form of rash and itching.
• Development of Quincke's edema.
• Nausea, stool upset (diarrhea or constipation), vomiting, pain in the stomach and intestines.
• Development of muscular myasthenia (pain).
• The toddler does not sleep well, as the solution has a tonic effect on the body.
• Decreased appetite, moodiness.

If such symptoms appear, parents should stop taking Elkar for their child and contact a medical facility. Based on the child’s condition, the specialist decides on the advisability of continuing to take the drug or stopping it.

Main indications

The main property of Elkar is its ability to improve metabolism, so it is given to weakened, premature babies, as well as to those who lag behind their peers in mental or physical development. Elkar may be indicated for infants and newborns if:

• there was a birth injury;
• there was asphyxia;
• poorly developed (or absent) sucking reflex;

If the sucking reflex is insufficient, it must be stimulated

• the baby has poor appetite, lack of body weight, malnutrition;
• jaundice was diagnosed;
• decreased muscle tone, the child is lethargic and inactive;
• the baby has low immunity and gets sick often;
• the period of preparation for surgery, or recovery time after surgery;
• the child lags behind his peers in development, cannot concentrate, is extremely distracted;
• The baby is undergoing rehabilitation after a serious illness or injury.

As you can see, Elkar can be used for newborns; it is allowed from birth. The medication is available in the form of a solution - one option is for injection, the second is for oral administration (in the form of drops). Each option is convenient in certain cases. The table indicates when injection therapy is preferable and when it is sufficient to use the drug in the form of drops.

Table on the use of various forms of the drug:

Elcar drops are also used for jaundice in newborns (see also: Ursofalk suspension for newborns for jaundice)

Komarovsky's review: what does the doctor think about Elkar?

The famous pediatrician Evgeny Komarovsky has his own opinion regarding the Elkar remedy; the doctor is confident that this drug is useful for a newborn, especially if there are direct indications for it, but does not consider it absolutely necessary.

Komarovsky carefully studied the instructions for use of the drug, which he shares on his own forum, and came to the conclusion that Elkar is more of an advertising drug and does not have a specialized effect. The drug has a positive effect on appetite, increases it without causing excessive weight gain, and has a beneficial effect on physical activity. However, carnitine is not a panacea at all, and for some children it is not beneficial at all.”

If a child’s appetite and physical activity are impaired, the doctor does not recommend taking medication. You can increase your immunity using natural remedies; correct physical activity will help improve physical activity and appetite. Evgeniy Komarovsky believes that today doctors prescribe Elkar for infants too often, even when it is not entirely needed: “Prescribing carnitine to a child and giving it regularly is much easier than developing an adequate daily regimen and sticking to it. Before prescribing, it is necessary to carefully study the characteristics of the body, collect anamnesis, and identify the main problems. Considering the flow of children in the pediatrics department, doctors do not have enough time for such communication with parents, so prescribing medicine is faster and easier.”

There is no point in depriving Elkar’s therapeutic capabilities for children of any meaning. Its positive properties are most often noted by neurologists when prescribed to premature babies. With such a diagnosis, the use of the drug is completely justified; moreover, it gives good results: weight gain is stabilized, appetite and sucking reflex are improved. In other options, the use of the product is a big question. In any case, the doctor must explain in detail why he is prescribing L-carnitine and what results can be obtained from taking it.

Reviews from parents

Margarita Nosova, 33 years old, Vladivostok

My son is 2 years old, he is slightly behind in speech development, has low hemoglobin and poor appetite. At an appointment with a pediatrician, we were advised to give the baby Elkar for 1 month. When I asked the doctor what kind of medicine, he replied that taking it would help solve our problem and so that I would not doubt its effectiveness. The price of the drug is about 500 rubles per bottle of 50 mil. I read reviews about it, they all seemed to be positive, and with the hope that it would help my son, they started taking it. I have been taking the drops for 2 weeks now and the results are obvious. The child’s appetite has improved, hemoglobin has increased, and every day I notice that the child is saying new sounds and even words. Elkar is quite pleased with the results from taking her!

Ksenia Volkova, 36 years old, Sevastopol

A cardiologist prescribed Elkar to us when our son was 5 years old. The reason for his appointment was a heart murmur. The doctor said that there was no reason to worry, but it was better to take a course of this medicine. As the specialist explained, this drug will help improve the functioning of the nervous system, normalize heart rhythm, and also increase appetite and give energy. The drug has a specific taste, we took it for only 4 days, after which I noticed that the child became too excitable, woke up at night, was nervous for no reason, but began to eat well. I read reviews about the medicine, where I found information that Elkar stimulates the nervous system and can often provoke increased arousal. In general, I stopped giving him this drug and literally after 3 days my son’s sleep returned to normal. I don’t know whether this medicine would help us against heart murmurs, but I’m sure that it makes the child more excitable.

pharmachologic effect

The effect of the drug is due to its constituent components. Levocarnitine takes an active part in the following processes:

• normalizes protein and fat metabolism;
• takes part in ATP synthesis;
• participates in the process of food digestion;
• corrects body weight indicators;
• inhibits the synthesis of acids that produce acetone;
• triggers the work of cells that produce gastric juice;
• promotes the breakdown of fat in muscles;
• increases endurance and performance.

Levocarnitine is similar in structure and effect to B vitamins. Its main task is to transport fatty acids into cells and produce energy. This substance also stimulates the formation of lecithin in the liver, an amino acid responsible for reducing cholesterol levels in blood vessels.

Operating principle

Levocarnitine, which is part of all forms of Elkar, is an amino acid that is partially formed in the human body and is obtained from food (mainly from meat products). In its structure, it is similar to vitamins that are part of group B. This amino acid is very important for various metabolic processes and energy production. The use of "Elkar" helps eliminate its deficiency or provide the body with increased need, for example, with frequent illnesses, poor nutrition, stress or heavy physical activity.

Thanks to levocarnitine in sufficient quantities, the following changes occur in the body:

• due to the transfer of fatty acids and their oxidation, the process of energy formation increases, as a result of which fatigue decreases and endurance increases, and performance improves;
• protein metabolism is optimized and anabolic processes are activated;
• food absorption improves, and the activity of digestive juices increases;
• Glycogen reserves increase and are spent more economically, so resistance to physical activity increases;
• the absorption of carbohydrates and vitamins improves;
• the fat content in the body decreases, and therefore the medicine helps not only with low weight, but also with excess body weight;
• the formation of endorphins is stimulated, due to which “Elkar” increases resistance to stress;
• macrophages and other immune cells receive more energy, so they more actively repel attacks from infectious agents, which has a positive effect on the immune system;
• the condition of the nervous and cardiovascular systems improves, as a result of which the resistance of brain and myocardial tissue to various damaging factors increases;
• Organic acids and various toxic substances are more actively removed from the body;
• metabolic processes are restored if thyroid function is increased (levocarnitine exhibits partial antagonism to thyroxine).

Analogs

Many parents are faced with the need to support digestion in infants with slow development. There are different ways and means for this, depending on the characteristics of the baby’s condition. The closest analogues of Elkar include:

1. L-carnitine. Contains tartaric acid and carnitine salts. The drug is indicated for infants with weakened sucking function, lack of body weight, hypotension, and nervous disorders. Admission from the first days of life is allowed. Strict adherence to the dosage prescribed by the doctor is required.
2. Cartan. The drug is widely used in nursing newborns, for hypotension and malnutrition, slow growth and development of infants and older children.
3. Carnitene. The drug is produced in Italy. The main component is levocarnitine. There are not many auxiliary components in the composition, which reduces the risk of allergies.
4. Metapictures. The owner of the certificate is Great Britain. A drug for intravenous infusion containing levocarnitine.

Other drugs help accelerate the development of children, stimulate better absorption of nutrients, and ensure rapid weight gain for infants:

1. Vitamin complexes. Aquadetrim is indicated from the neonatal period, contains vitamin D. Eliminates the danger of rickets, stimulates metabolism, helps absorb calcium for bone growth.
2. Pantogam. A nootropic drug prescribed for encephalopathy, birth injuries, toxic effects on the body, neuroses and similar conditions.
3. Korilip. A remedy for improving metabolic processes. The drug Korilip Neo is available for newborns. These are suppositories, used rectally. Contains riboflavin, vitamins, enzymes. Improves all types of metabolism, increases the energy potential of the body.
4. Cocarboxylase. The medicine promotes the absorption of glucose, stimulates carbohydrate metabolism, and restores the functions of the cardiovascular system. Helps infants recover from infectious diseases. Positively affects respiratory functions.

Only a specialist who observes the baby and knows exactly the diagnosis and developmental characteristics can choose an exact or therapeutic analogue of Elkar.

Storage conditions

After the bottle is opened, the drug is constantly kept in the refrigerator. The medicine must be used within 2 months. Until the bottle is opened, it is stored at room temperature (25 °), keeping children out of reach. The shelf life of an unopened medicine is 3 years. The attitude of pediatricians to the use of Elkar is very diverse. Everyone agrees on one thing - parents should not give the drug to their infants on their own. Only a specialist can calculate the dose, course and frequency of administration.

Many doctors are confident that after taking the drug, infants develop faster. They begin to hold their head up, sit more confidently, and crawl more actively. Although others point out that in the 2-4 weeks it takes for the course of treatment, the kids would have learned this anyway.

Metabolic processes are adjusted and improved in infants within the time frame allotted by nature. Elkar helps premature babies catch up with their peers in development, gain weight, become stronger and more cheerful. For healthy children, the drug is indicated for the prevention of metabolic disorders, strengthening and improving the nervous system, and activating the body's defenses.

Instructions for use of Elkar, dosage

The solution is taken orally, 30 minutes before meals, further diluted with liquid.

Standard dosages, according to the instructions for use of Elkar, depending on the diagnosis:

• For prolonged physical and psycho-emotional stress: from 0.75 g (1/2 measuring spoon or 2.5 ml) 3 times a day to 2.25 g (1.5 measuring spoon or 7.5 ml) 2-3 times a day day.
• For anorexia nervosa, as well as during the rehabilitation period after illnesses and surgical interventions and injuries: 1.5 g (1 scoop or 5 ml) 2 times a day. The course is from 1 to 2 months.
• In the complex therapy of chronic gastritis and chronic pancreatitis with reduced secretory function: 0.375 g (1/4 scoop or 1.25 ml) 2 times a day. The course of treatment is for 1–1.5 months.
• For the treatment of skin diseases: 0.75 g (1/2 scoop or 2.5 ml). The course of treatment is for 2–4 weeks.
• For mild hyperthyroidism: 0.25 g (13 drops) 2-3 times a day. The course of treatment is 20 days. The course of treatment is repeated after a 1-2 month break or prescribed for 3 months without a break.
• For vascular, toxic and traumatic brain lesions: 0.75 g (1/2 scoop or 2.5 ml) per day. The course of treatment is for 3–5 days. If necessary, a repeat course is prescribed after 12–14 days.
• For diseases accompanied by a lack of carnitine (primary and secondary carnitine deficiency): up to 50–100 mg/kg (2–5 drops/kg) with a dosage frequency of 2–3 times a day. The course of treatment is for 3–4 months.

Adults in sports medicine and during intense training are prescribed 2.5 g 1-3 times a day (daily dose 2.5-7.5 g). When used for therapeutic purposes - 70-100 mg/kg per day (5-7.5 g/day). Reception courses: 3-4 weeks in the pre-competition period, during the training process - up to 6-8 weeks.

Elkar for children, instructions

For children, Elkar solution can be added to food. Dosage depends on age:

• For children under 3 years of age, the dose is determined only by a pediatrician and depends on the indications, nature and severity of the pathological process.
• Ages from 3 to 6 years – 5 drops (100 mg) \ 2-3 times a day.
• Age 6-12 years – 11-16 drops (200-300 mg) \ 2-3 times a day, course of treatment for at least 1 month.

In most cases, the dosage and regimen are determined by the attending physician on an individual basis.

Additional Information

If pain in the epigastric region occurs during treatment with the drug, the dosage should be reduced.

With the simultaneous use of Elkar and analogues with glucocorticosteroids, the latter promote the accumulation of carnitine in all tissues, with the exception of the liver. Anabolic agents enhance the effect of the drug.

Side effects

The instructions warn about the possibility of developing the following side effects when prescribing Elkar:

With a long course of treatment, allergic reactions may occur - urticaria, skin rash, angioedema, dermatitis.

Contraindications

Elkar is contraindicated in the following cases:

Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Overdose

An overdose is accompanied by dyspeptic symptoms: pain, a feeling of early satiety, heaviness or fullness of the stomach, localized in the epigastric region, bloating, nausea.

People with uremia may have symptoms of myasthenic disorders.

Treatment involves gastric lavage and taking adsorbents (activated carbon).

When is it not advisable to take Elcar?

The drug has almost no contraindications, however, in rare cases, intolerance to some components of the drug is observed. In this regard, before starting to take Elkar, it is better to visit a pediatrician. Side effects are also possible, which usually do not appear immediately, but after a while.

• sleep disturbance;
• abdominal pain, feeling of discomfort;
• indigestion;
• decreased muscle tone;
• allergic reactions;
• disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system, increased excitability;
• poor appetite.

If a child has an allergy, it is not advisable to take Elkar.
In addition to the main active ingredient, the solution contains auxiliary ingredients. These are citric acid, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, and water.

In case of an overdose of the drug, dyspeptic disorders are possible. There are no special medications that can neutralize an overdose, so treatment is symptomatic. Usually doctors perform gastric lavage and prescribe absorbent agents.

Side effects

As a rule, taking the drug does not cause side effects. However, in some cases, unwanted reactions may appear in the form of:

• dyspepsia (stomach pain);
• muscle weakness;
• excessive excitability;
• allergic reactions;
• dizziness and poor sleep;
• in exceptional cases, appetite decreases.

Allergy in the form of spots on the skin often manifests itself as a side reaction from taking the drug

One of the indicative indicators of a problem is the smell of urine. If a specific “aroma” appears, the dosage is reduced, after which it is necessary to consult your doctor.

Children who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, dysbiosis or pancreatitis are given carnitine along with enzyme preparations.

Storage conditions and price

In pharmacies you can buy the medicine in the form of a solution, which is in bottles made of dark glass or plastic. The bottle is enclosed in a cardboard package along with a measuring spoon. There are also detailed instructions for the drug.

When purchasing, pay attention to the shelf life, which for Elkar is 3 years from the date of manufacture. Once the drug is uncorked, store it in a dark place and try to keep the temperature between 8 and 15 °C.

The shelf life of opened medicine is no more than 2 months.

The price of the drug depends on the size of the bottle and varies in different pharmacies from 330 to 460 rubles. Among the analogues is o, which is available in the form of syrup for children. It costs about 250 rubles and is allowed from the first month of life. Good reviews are left about the drug "Levocarnil". This is a special powder that needs to be diluted with water and taken according to the instructions.

Never replace Elkar for newborns with another medicine yourself. This can negatively affect the baby's health. The doctor prescribes a specific drug based on the child’s individual characteristics and medical history. Therefore, first get a detailed consultation with your pediatrician and buy a new drug only with his permission.

If your doctor prescribed Elkar for you, don’t worry. This is a high-quality, proven drug that has proven itself well. Side effects from it are rare, so trust your pediatrician and strictly follow his recommendations.

Komarovsky's review of Elkar for children

Komarovsky did not pay serious attention to Elkar in his program. However, he answered questions regarding this product. If you evaluate his review of Elkar, you can draw the following conclusions.

1. Elkar is a relatively useful, but completely optional remedy for children. Its popularity, which is observed today, is associated, rather, with absolute safety and ease of use. True, this does not mean that Elkar leads to improved health or other positive changes.
2. With the help of Elkar it is impossible to cure any serious diseases. Thus, it has no specialized action. Komarovsky says that Elkar can slightly strengthen the immune system, improve mood and increase activity. But even if you do not take it, there will be no negative consequences for the child’s health.
3. For the most part, Elkar allows you to create the “appearance of treatment.” Komarovsky believes that doctors prescribe it so that parents can calm down. This trick is especially often used in relation to those parents who constantly notice some kind of disease in their children. But usually imaginary “sores” are not detected.

It turns out that, according to Komarovsky, Elkar is a practically useless drug. But if parents want to treat their child with something, and at the same time calm themselves down, they can give Elkar without fear. As Komarovsky says, Elkar’s tolerability is almost ideal. But what will parents say about Elkar? Since it is used everywhere, there are already quite a lot of reviews. It is useful to turn to the most characteristic of them further.

Elkar drug

Medical classification classifies the drug Elkar as a group of drugs that improve metabolic processes and energy metabolism in tissues. This allows the product to be used as a corrector of metabolic processes. The active substance of the composition is levocarnitine or carnifit - a natural component that increases the body’s resistance to physical stress.

Composition and release form

Elkar is available in three forms: granules for solution, oral drops and ampoules for intramuscular administration. See the table for the composition and description of each type:

pharmachologic effect

Elkar refers to drugs that correct metabolic processes. The drug is designed to improve fat and protein metabolism, increase the secretion and activity of gastric juice enzymes, accelerate the absorption of food, reduce fat content in muscles and excess weight. The component transfers palmitic acid from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria, where it undergoes an oxidation process and does not affect the function of the thyroid gland.

The active substance L-carnitine is related to growth vitamins of group B, takes part in metabolic processes, acting as a carrier of long-chain fatty acids through cell membranes, and increases appetite. L-carnitine reduces the degree of lactic acidosis, increases glycogen reserves in muscles and liver, and reduces component consumption.

Due to the active substance, the drug exhibits lipolytic and anabolic effects, normalizes metabolism in hyperthyroidism, acting as an indirect antagonist of the action of thyroid hormones. After absorption in the intestine, Elkar reaches a maximum concentration after three hours, acts for 9 hours (three for intravenous administration), and is found in the liver, myocardium, and muscles. L-carnitine is excreted by the kidneys.

Indications for use

According to the instructions for use, Elkar for adults is prescribed as part of complex therapy for the following indications:

• increased performance, endurance, decreased fatigue;
• intense physical and psycho-emotional stress;
• rehabilitation after illnesses, surgeries, injuries;
• acceleration of tissue regeneration;
• chronic gastritis and pancreatitis;
• psoriasis, seborrheic eczema, focal scleroderma, lupus erythematosus;
• mild hyperthyroidism;
• neurological manifestations of brain lesions;
• anorexia nervosa, physical exhaustion;
• lack of carnitine, increased loss in diseases (myopathy, cardiomyopathy, mitochondrial diseases, hereditary diseases with mitochondrial deficiency);
• improvement of speed and strength indicators, increase in muscle mass and reduction of body fat metabolism (improves metabolism);
• prevention of post-training syndrome, acceleration of recovery processes after physical activity;
• traumatic injuries, to accelerate muscle regeneration.

Under the supervision of a physician, the drug can be used in pediatrics up to the age of three for the following indications:

• premature newborns, children after birth trauma, malnutrition, hypotension or asphyxia;
• sluggish sucking reflex, low or low weight gain, decreased muscle tone, lack of appetite;
• insufficiency of development of motor and mental functions of the body, prevention of these disorders;
• growth retardation and underweight in adolescents under 16 years of age.

Description of the drug

Elkar is an innovative drug for the correction of metabolic processes, which allows you to restore energy and fat metabolism, stimulate regenerative processes in the body of a child or an adult. The active component of the drug is L-carnitine, as well as excipients, which together made it possible to create a powerful formula to combat various diseases. Elkar solution for oral administration can be considered a universal drug, since it is widely prescribed for childhood diseases as a general tonic. Taking the drug allows you to have antihypoxic, metabolic, stimulating and anabolic effects. The medicine improves the functioning of the central nervous system, reduces the production of acids, restores the alkaline reserve of the blood, accelerates reparative processes in the body, supplies it with energy and other useful substances. According to the instructions for the drug, carnitine slows down the breakdown of proteins, increases the body’s protective functions, and strengthens the muscular system.

The drug Elkar is a vitamin-like substance that provides the human body with endurance, stimulates the immune system, and does not have a negative effect on biochemical processes. Multiple studies have shown that this medicine truly works, is completely harmless and can be used for both therapeutic and preventive purposes. Elkar solution has found wide application in pediatrics, cardiology, endocrinology, neurology, gastroenterology, and sports medicine.

What to do

Treating a ruptured cystic capsule at home is not possible. If symptoms appear that indicate the development of a pathological process, you must immediately contact a medical facility.

Despite the fact that in some cases there is an improvement in the condition after a certain time, in no case should it be ignored, since failure to provide timely assistance can only worsen the situation.

If a rupture occurs, experts do not recommend taking painkillers. Until the woman is taken to the hospital, she needs to be ensured complete rest.

Video

Until the child’s body is fully strengthened, doctors can prescribe the use of a variety of drugs. And often among the prescribed remedies one finds a product that is incomprehensible to many parents, such as Elkar. Reviews for it are easy to find. But Dr. Komarovsky will tell you much better about the action of the remedy. He has his own, rather unconventional attitude towards Elkar.

Despite the fact that there are very good reviews for Elkar for children, Komarovsky does not share the parents’ enthusiasm. To understand why he is skeptical about this product, you must first understand Elkar's claimed action. According to the manufacturers, Elkar has such positive effects.

1. Allows you to fill the body with energy. Naturally, such a statement is viewed very positively by parents whose children are often sick or have no appetite.
2. Removes toxins from the body. Reviews often say that Elkar allows you to rid the child’s digestive system of impurities and toxins.
3. Strengthens the nervous system. This effect is achieved due to the fact that the main element of this “medicine” is elcarnitine. Indeed, with its use you can protect yourself from various pathologies of the nervous system.

It may seem that these declared qualities are very useful and should please both parents and the child himself. But still, Komarovsky says that such a list of actions can rather be called just an advertising ploy. It’s worth moving on to his review of this remedy in order to share or question the doctor’s present skepticism.

Indications for use

According to the annotation for the drug, Elkar is recommended:

• in conditions provoked by increased psycho-emotional and physical stress;
• with increased fatigue and decreased performance (in particular, in older people);
• in the rehabilitation period after surgery, injuries and previous somatic diseases;
• for the treatment of diseases of the pancreas and liver, digestive disorders, dermatological diseases, hyperthyroidism (mild form);
• in conditions accompanied by carnitine deficiency in the body;
• patients suffering from anorexia nervosa syndrome.

The drug is used to treat brain lesions accompanied by neurological symptoms.

Elkar is prescribed for growth vitamin deficiency, which is caused by diseases associated with metabolic disorders in muscle tissue, mitochondrial diseases or myocardial diseases, accompanied by electrical or mechanical dysfunction of the heart.

For patients with heart disease, taking the drug can increase tolerance to physical activity. In elderly patients, Elkar slows down the aging process of the brain, improves concentration and higher mental functions.

The drug can also be recommended for people following a vegetarian diet, patients with decreased appetite and physical exhaustion.

L-carnitine is also indicated for athletes to increase endurance and efficiency during training, increase strength and speed, improve coordination of movements, reduce adipose tissue and more quickly build muscle mass.

In addition, in sports medicine the drug is prescribed to prevent and reduce the severity of symptoms of post-training syndrome, as well as to accelerate the regeneration of muscles damaged due to injury.

The drug can also be prescribed to children born prematurely, as well as to children during the period of active growth. During treatment, the child’s appetite improves, body weight normalizes, and the development of skeletal muscles normalizes.

In acute hypoxic conditions (for example, ischemic stroke, acute cerebral hypoxia or transient ischemic attack); acute, subacute and rehabilitation period of circulatory disorders in the brain; DEP, brain lesions of various origins, after surgical interventions; patients on hemodialysis with a deficiency of levocarnitine in their body; for ischemic disease, hypoperfusion caused by cardiogenic shock, and other pathological processes in the myocardium, Elkar can be prescribed intravenously.

Indications

The reasons for prescribing “Elkar” are:

• supporting the newborn’s body during premature birth or after birth trauma;
• the need to stimulate metabolic processes in infants who do not gain weight well;
• decreased muscle tone in infants;
• supporting the body of infants who have a reduced sucking reflex;
• delayed development of mental or motor functions, as well as prevention of such disorders;
• growth retardation and underweight in children over one year of age;
• significant emotional or physical stress;
• acceleration of recovery after injury or after surgery, as well as after a serious illness;
• hyperthyroidism;
• brain damage caused by trauma, as well as vascular or toxic origin;
• anorexia nervosa;
• cardiomyopathies and other diseases in which there is little l-carnitine in the body or it is lost in large quantities;
• chronic inflammation of the stomach or pancreas;
• psoriasis and other skin diseases (the drug is included in their complex treatment).

Elkar injections are most in demand for acute hypoxic lesions of the brain or myocardium.

Applications and dosages

The use of Elkar injection solution can be prescribed only in exceptional cases, according to an individually calculated dosage and regimen of use. When using the oral version of the drug, take it 30 minutes before the next meal, diluted in a small amount of water.

for adults

In the case of adult patients, the dosage, depending on the required therapeutic effect, should correspond to the following parameters:

1. Physical, mental and mental overload - 750 mg of levocarnitine 2-3 times a day.
2. As part of the treatment of inflammatory lesions of the stomach and pancreas - 375 mg 2 times a day for 1-1.5 months.
3. Overproduction of thyroid hormones - 250 mg 2-3 times a day, observing the course terms (20 days) and a break of 60 days.
4. Anorexia nervosa, post-traumatic and post-surgical rehabilitation – 1500 mg of levocarnitine 2 times a day for up to 2 months.
5. Diseases accompanied by a reduction in the natural production of carnitine - 2-3 times a day, 40-60 mg in concentration of the main component per 1 kg of weight, 3-4 months.
6. For intense physical activity (usually sports) - about 2500 mg 1-3 times a day. The exact dosage varies from person to person.
7. Brain damage of a traumatic, vascular or toxic type - 750 mg for 3 to 5 days with a break of 14 days if necessary, repeat the course.
8. Chronic skin lesions - 750 mg 2 times a day, course duration from 14 to 28 days.

for children

When using the drug Elkar in pediatric practice, the drug can only be used as an additive to sweet foods. The dosage calculation is based on the age characteristics of the child’s body:

1. Up to 3 years of age - the required dosage is determined only on the basis of available indications and analysis results.
2. From 3 to 6 years – about 100 mg (5 drops) 2-3 times a day.
3. From 6 to 12 years – 200-300 mg (10-15 drops) 2-3 times a day, with a treatment period of at least 28 days.

It must be taken into account that all indicated dosages for children are approximate; the exact dosage of the drug is determined by the treating specialist.

for pregnant women and during lactation

The drug is not used during pregnancy. It is possible to use the drug during lactation in accordance with the adult dosage, subject to discontinuation of breastfeeding.

Interaction with other drugs

If a newborn has jaundice, ELKAR and URSOLFAC in combination are often prescribed. This combination can be given without fear of unexpected reactions.

If you combine the use with agents that have an anabolic effect, there is also an increase in the effectiveness of such use.

Elkar does not conflict with most drugs that can be prescribed to infants and does not interact. Parents can safely treat their babies with antipyretic, anti-inflammatory drugs and continue to give levocarnitine to improve digestion.

Experts note only one type of mutual action - when taking glucocorticosteroids, L-carnitine cumulates (accumulates) in most tissues (with the exception of the liver). When prescribing hormones to a baby, you should consult your doctor about the advisability of taking Elkar.

Description, composition, form, packaging

The drug "Elkar" for infants, reviews of which are controversial, is available in the form of a solution for oral administration. The active element of this remedy is levocarnitine. The medicine also contains additional ingredients such as propyl parahydroxybenzoate, citric acid monohydrate, purified water and methyl parahydroxybenzoate.

The medication "Elkar" (solution for infants) is available in the form of a transparent, colorless or slightly colored liquid with a specific odor. You can purchase it in dark glass dropper bottles, which, together with instructions, a measuring spoon or glass, are contained in cardboard packs.

Release form

"Elkar" is a Russian product, also known from the drug "Pantogam". Currently, Elkar is produced in three different forms.

• A solution to be taken orally. This version of Elkar is often called syrup, although it is a clear liquid. It is usually colorless, but may have a slight tint. Such a solution may have a specific odor, but often it does not smell of anything. Since this “Elkar” is most often used in children and is approved from birth, it is considered the pediatric form of the drug.
• Effervescent granules that are dissolved in water, after which the resulting solution is drunk. Such granules are sold in portioned sachets containing 1000 mg of active substance each, so this form of Elkar is not used in children. It is contraindicated under 18 years of age.
• A solution intended for intravenous or intramuscular injection. This is a liquid without any shade, placed in glass ampoules in a volume of 5 ml. One package contains 5 or 10 ampoules. This form of “Elkar” is used in severe conditions (often in a hospital) and in the youngest patients, since injections are allowed at any age.

"Elkar" in the form of an oral solution is presented in pharmacies in three different packages.

• 25 ml bottles are usually prescribed to children under 3 years of age. This packaging has a dropper dispenser to accurately measure the number of drops of solution required for the smallest children.
• Bottles with 50 ml of medicine are intended for use by children 3-12 years old. Such bottles also have a dosing device in the form of a dropper. In addition, a plastic measuring spoon is placed in the box, which holds 5 milliliters of medicine, and is also marked 1/2 (helps measure 2.5 ml) and 1/4 (to measure 1.25 ml of medicine).
• Bottles containing 100 ml of solution are profitable to buy for teenagers over 12 years of age. Along with the bottle in the box there is a measuring cup that is convenient for dosing the medication. This cup holds 20 ml of solution.

additional information

The average price for the drug varies from 390 rubles. (20% solution) up to 450 rub. (30% solution).

Analogs of the amino acid levocarnitine are the drug Carnitene and Levocarnitine. Carnitene is available in the form of chewable tablets; the action of the tablets is similar to Elkar, but the range of applications is much narrower. Levocarnitine is absolutely similar to Elkar, it has a different name because it is produced by a different manufacturer.

Other analogues of Elkar:

• Adenocor;
• Dibikor;
• Gepadif;
• Metamax;
• Vazonat;
• Idrinol.

Since the active substance Elkar levocarnitine is normally present in the human body, there are practically no side effects from taking the drug.

There are rarely negative reviews from parents that the drug causes abdominal pain, nausea, or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. Sometimes undesirable effects from taking the drug are observed, such as the appearance of an unpleasant odor from the child’s mouth, as well as from urine, skin, and hair.

general development

The presence of such phenomena usually indicates an overdose of the drug: it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug, and, if necessary, take adsorbent agents (for example, Polysorb).

In children prone to allergies, allergic manifestations in the form of a rash are possible. This indicates the child’s individual intolerance to the components of the drug, i.e. his appointment should be cancelled.

Parents also note in some cases that their children have difficulty falling asleep and increased nervous agitation. This suggests that the drug is contraindicated in children with excessively increased psycho-emotional excitability.

Take 30 minutes before meals, diluting the drug in a small amount of juice, compote or 5% glucose solution. Adults are prescribed Elkar 30 percent, children - Elkar 20 percent, the daily dose is divided into 2-3 doses.

Daily dosages

:

• For weight gain in adults, Elkar is taken in a dose of 1.5 to 6 g, course of 1-2 months.
• Treatment of gastritis and pancreatitis, skin diseases – 750 mg, 1-1.5 months.
• Mild hyperthyroidism – 500 mg, 3 weeks.
• Cerebrovascular diseases – 750 mg, 2 weeks.
• Carnitine deficiency – 50-100 mg per 1 kg of weight, 3-4 weeks.
• Preparing for competitions or heavy physical activity – 2.5-7 g, 1.5-2 months.
• For weight loss, Elkar is taken in a dose of 1.5 to 5 g per day, course from 2-3 weeks to several months.

Elkar syrup instructions for use for newborns

Children under 3 years of age are recommended to use Elkar in a concentration of no higher than 20%. The daily dose is determined by the doctor (often equal to 250-300 mg) and is divided into 2-3 doses. The drug can be mixed with sweet dishes (compotes, juices). The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks, use is allowed from the first days of life.

Elkar syrup instructions for use for children over 3 years old

The drug is prescribed in a daily dose of 400-750 mg, divided into 2-3 doses. In case of growth retardation, 2-3 courses of treatment lasting 3 weeks are prescribed, with breaks of 2-3 months. In severe cases, continuous use for 2-3 months is allowed.

Contraindications

Apart from individual intolerance, the drug has no other special contraindications. However, its uncontrolled use can provoke a number of side effects:

• disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
• discomfort and pain in the abdominal area;
• deterioration in general health.

It is strongly not recommended to prescribe this drug to your child on your own. Only a doctor can recommend the use of Elkar, having previously determined the correct dosage and duration of use.

The drug Elkar is relatively new on the pharmaceutical market, but is already popular and is often prescribed by pediatricians or neonatologists. After reading the instructions for the drug, one gets the impression that it is a real panacea for children, and taking it will help get rid of a large number of diseases. Is this really true? Reviews from parents about the drug are mixed, since some notice positive results after taking it, while others believe that taking Elkar solution is “money down the drain”! In order to understand how effective this drug is in the treatment of childhood illnesses and what doctors and parents themselves think about it, it is worth familiarizing yourself with its description, mechanism of action, indications for use, as well as the opinion of Dr. Komarovsky and the reviews of the parents themselves.

Instructions for use of the drug

The dosage of drops, ampoules or granules is prescribed individually by the doctor. It depends on the disease, the age of the patient and the purpose of use.

Drops (syrup)

The drug is used half an hour before meals. Drops must be diluted with water before use. Their dosage depends on the person’s diagnosis:

1. For anorexia nervosa and the recovery period after surgery, the drug is prescribed 2 tsp. within a month. Duration of therapy is 1-2 months.
2. During prolonged and heavy physical activity, the drug should be taken 1-2 tsp. syrup up to three times a day.
3. To stimulate appetite, patients with chronic gastritis (reduced secretory function) and pancreatitis with exocrine insufficiency should take the drug half a teaspoon 2 times a day. The drug should be used for 1-2 months.
4. For the treatment of dermatological diseases (lupus erythematosus, eczema), a single dose is 1 tsp. drug 2 times a day. Therapy should last from two to four weeks.
5. For brain lesions of various origins (vascular, toxic and traumatic), 0.5-1 tsp is prescribed. Treatment should last 3-5 days. If necessary, the course of therapy is repeated, but only after 2 weeks.
6. If there is insufficient production of carnitine by the body, the drug is prescribed in a dosage of 50-100 mg per 1 kg of body weight. The frequency of administration is 2-3 times a day, and the duration is 3-4 months.

Ampoules Elkar

1 ampoule contains 500 mg of active ingredient. Elkar is administered drip or stream (2-3 minutes), as well as intramuscularly. Before administration, the contents of the ampoule are dissolved in a 0.9% sodium chloride solution or 5% dextrose solution. The scheme for using the solution is as follows:

1. For acute circulatory disorders in the brain, the drug is prescribed 2 ampoules for three days, then 1 ampoule for a week. After 10-12 days you can repeat the course.
2. During the recovery period, as well as for encephalopathy and other brain lesions, patients are administered Elkar (1-2 ampoules) without dilution for a week.
3. Intravenous administration is prescribed for secondary carnitine deficiency, hemodialysis (4 ampoules).
4. For acute heart failure and myocardial infarction, the dosage is from 6 to 10 ampoules, which should be divided into 2 or 3 doses. Subsequently, the dose is reduced by 2 times. The same applies to patients with cardiogenic shock: the dosage is the same, but after the patient comes out of cardiogenic shock, Elkar is prescribed orally.