Medical expert of the article
New publications
Preparations
Vicair
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Vikair belongs to a category of drugs used for the treatment of peptic ulcers and GERD.
The drug has a complex therapeutic effect. Its active elements (basic bismuth nitrate, heavy Mg carbonate and Na bicarbonate) have an astringent and antacid effect. Buckthorn bark has laxative properties, and calamus rhizome demonstrates antispasmodic activity. [ 1 ]
Indications Vicair
It is used in the combined treatment of peptic ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract, hyperacid gastritis, and also in cases of functional dyspepsia.
Release form
The release of the therapeutic substance is realized in the form of tablets - 10 pieces inside a strip or blister. Inside the box - 1 or 2 blisters.
Dosing and administration
The medicine is taken orally, after meals. You need to take 1-2 tablets, 3 times a day, with warm water (0.5 glass). It is recommended to crush the tablets beforehand.
The duration of the treatment cycle is selected by the doctor, taking into account the severity of the disease and its nature.
- Application for children
There is no experience in using drugs in pediatrics.
Use Vicair during pregnancy
It is prohibited to prescribe Vikair during pregnancy. The medicine should not be used during breastfeeding.
Contraindications
Main contraindications:
- severe intolerance to the components of the drug;
- chronic inflammation in the gallbladder and intestines;
- hypoacid gastritis;
- bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract;
- severe renal dysfunction;
- active form of fever.
Buckthorn bark should not be used in the following cases:
- constipation of endocrine or neurogenic origin;
- constipation of a spastic nature;
- intestinal blockage;
- appendicitis;
- bleeding;
- acute abdomen;
- active form of gastroenterocolitis.
Side effects Vicair
Side effects include:
- digestive disorders: nausea, pigmentation in the tongue area, vomiting and increased frequency of stools, which disappear after reducing the dosage;
- problems related to the functioning of the central nervous system: cephalgia;
- lesions in the lymph and blood system: hemoglobinemia;
- systemic disorders: swelling in the eyelids and gums;
- Others: Allergy symptoms including itching, hives, swelling and rashes.
The use of bismuth may cause the following disorders:
- manifestations from the subcutaneous layer and epidermis: itching and rashes;
- digestive disorders: dark green or black stool.
Buckthorn bark causes the following disorders associated with digestive activity: atony of the colon, dehydration, colic-like pain and weakening of the intestinal enzymes.
Calamus rhizomes can provoke the following immune disorders: rashes, swelling, itching and hives.
Overdose
Signs of poisoning include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Symptomatic procedures are used for treatment.
Frequent use of high doses may cause bismuth intoxication. After 10 days, symptoms characteristic of renal failure may be observed (increased plasma bismuth levels).
Overdose of buckthorn bark causes tenesmus, colicky abdominal pain and a feeling of discomfort.
Interactions with other drugs
The use of Vikair weakens the resorptive properties of tetracyclines, because their interaction with substances containing Mg cations causes the formation of poorly absorbed complexes.
The drug should not be combined with other medications containing bismuth, as this may increase blood levels of bismuth.
It is prohibited to combine with glycosides, antibiotics, alkaloids and enzyme drugs.
The drug weakens the absorption of coumarin derivatives.
Decreased absorption of other medications may occur when used in combination with Vicair. Therefore, a minimum 2-hour interval between drug administrations should be observed.
Storage conditions
Vikair should be stored in a place closed to children. Temperature values are no more than 25ºС.
Shelf life
Vicair can be used within a 5-year period from the date of manufacture of the pharmaceutical product.
Analogues
The drug's analogues are the medications Venter, Gastrocepin, Gaviscon with De-nol, and also Ampilop, Canalgat and Gastrotipin with Vis-nol. Also on the list are Vikalin and Sucralfate with Gastro-norm.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Vicair" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.