Medical expert of the article
New publications
Sorbents for hangovers
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Sorbents can be used to relieve hangover symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea by removing toxins and metabolic products of alcohol from the body. Here is a list of some of the sorbents that can be used for hangovers and their general mechanism of action:
- Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal has a large surface area, which allows it to adsorb (attract and hold) toxins and other harmful substances within its structure. It can help reduce hangover symptoms associated with alcohol poisoning.
- Polysorb: This silica gel-based sorbent can bind and remove toxins and bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Smecta (diosmectite): Smecta has adsorbent properties and can be used to treat diarrhea and stomach disorders, including hangover symptoms.
- Enterosgel (polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate): Enterosgel can adsorb toxins and bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract and help relieve hangover symptoms.
The mechanism of action of sorbents lies in their ability to bind harmful substances and remove them from the body through the intestines. They are usually taken orally in the form of powders or liquid suspensions, which then bind the toxins and eliminate them through the stool. It is important to remember that sorbents can be helpful in relieving some of the symptoms of a hangover, but they do not address the cause of the hangover or reduce blood alcohol levels. The best way to prevent hangovers is to drink alcohol in moderation or not at all.
Read also:
- Painkillers for hangovers
- Hangover sedatives
- Hangover juices
- Hangover teas
- What can and cannot be eaten when hungover?
Polysorb
"Polysorb" is a sorbent that is sometimes used to relieve hangover symptoms, although its effectiveness in this case remains a matter of debate. Here is some information about Polysorb and its possible effects on hangovers:
Mechanism of Action:
- "Polysorb" contains silica gels that can bind and remove toxins from the body, including some metabolic products of alcohol and its breakdown products.
- This sorbent can help speed up the elimination of toxins and reduce their effects on organs and tissues.
Dosage:
- The dosage of "Polysorb" may vary depending on the age and condition of the patient, as well as on the doctor's recommendations.
- It is usually recommended to dilute the powder of "Polysorb" in water and take orally before meals.
Contraindications:
- "Polysorb" may be contraindicated with individual intolerance to its components.
- It should also be taken with caution if you have peptic ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum.
Side effects:
- Usually "Polysorb" is well tolerated, and side effects rarely occur.
- Rare cases of allergic reactions may occur, but they are not frequent.
It is important to note that Polysorb is not a panacea for hangovers, and its effectiveness may depend on the individual characteristics of the body. The best way to prevent hangovers is to drink alcohol in moderation and take care of your body, including drinking enough water and eating before or after drinking alcohol. If you have a hangover and are going to use sorbents, it is always best to consult your doctor for advice and instructions on how to use them.
Activated carbon
Activated charcoal is a sorbent that is sometimes used to relieve hangover symptoms. Here is information about the mechanism of action, dosage, contraindications and possible side effects of using activated charcoal for hangovers:
Mechanism of Action:
- Activated charcoal has a large surface area with many pores, making it an excellent sorbent. It is able to adsorb (attract and retain) a variety of toxins, including some of the metabolic products of alcohol.
- When activated charcoal is taken internally, it moves through the gastrointestinal tract, binding toxins and harmful substances, and is eliminated from the body through the stool.
Dosage:
- The dosage of activated charcoal may vary depending on the manufacturer and the form of release (tablets, powder, etc.).
- It is generally recommended to take 1 g of activated charcoal for every 10 kg of body weight. For example, for a person weighing 70 kg, this would be 7 g of activated charcoal.
- Usually activated charcoal is taken with plenty of water.
Contraindications:
- Activated charcoal is usually well tolerated, but there are some contraindications:
- Individual intolerance to the components of the drug.
- Presence of peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum.
Side effects:
- Usually activated charcoal is well tolerated and rarely causes side effects.
- In rare cases, allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting or constipation may occur.
It is important to note that activated charcoal helps relieve some of the hangover symptoms associated with alcohol poisoning, but it does not treat the hangover itself or speed up the metabolism of alcohol. The best way to prevent hangovers is to drink alcohol in moderation and take care of your body, including drinking enough water and eating before or after drinking alcohol. If you have a hangover and are going to use activated charcoal or other sorbents, it is always best to consult your doctor for recommendations and instructions on how to use them.
Smecta
"Smecta (diosmectite) is an antiseptic and adsorbent medication that is commonly used to relieve symptoms of diarrhea and stomach upset. It can also be used after a hangover to relieve symptoms associated with an upset stomach. Here is some information about Smecta:
Mechanism of action: "Smecta" contains diosmectite, which has adsorbent properties. This means that it is able to bind and adsorb toxins, bacteria and other harmful substances in the gastrointestinal tract. It also forms a protective coating on the gastric and intestinal mucosa, which can help reduce irritation and inflammation. These mechanisms may be helpful in relieving hangover symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea.
Dosage: The dosage of "Smekta" may vary depending on individual needs and doctor's recommendations. Usually take 1-2 sachets of "Smekta" diluted in a small amount of water. The drug can be taken several times a day, but you should follow the instructions on the package or get a doctor's recommendation.
Contraindications:
"Smecta" is generally considered safe, but there are some contraindications:
- Individual intolerance or allergy to diosmectite or other components of the drug.
- Peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal cavity), as "Smekta" can make it difficult to diagnose this condition due to the formation of a protective coating on the mucous membrane.
- The use of "Smekta" in young children requires consultation with a doctor.
Side effects: Smecta is usually well tolerated and has minimal side effects. Possible side effects may include constipation, which rarely occurs.
"Smecta can help improve gastrointestinal health after a hangover and relieve symptoms associated with gastric distress. However, it is not a panacea for all hangover symptoms such as headache and dry mouth. Other methods and medications may be required to relieve such symptoms.
Enterosgel
"Enterosgel" is a sorbent that is used for the treatment and prevention of poisoning, intoxication, as well as for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. It can be used in hangovers to reduce symptoms associated with intoxication from alcohol, but its effectiveness in this case may be limited.
The mechanism of action of Enterosgel is based on its ability to bind and remove toxins, bacteria and decay products from the body. It works as a gel-forming agent in the stomach and intestines, enveloping harmful substances and eliminating them through the intestines. This can help reduce symptoms of intoxication and relieve some hangover symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
The dosage of "Enterosgel" may vary depending on the age and condition of the patient, so it is important to follow the instructions provided on the package or specified by the doctor. Usually "Enterosgel" is taken diluted with water 1-2 hours before a meal or 1-2 hours after a meal.
Contraindications for "Enterosgel" may include individual intolerance to the components of the drug, as well as acute or obstructive intestinal obstruction. It is important to consult your doctor before using Enterosgel, especially if you have medical contraindications or are taking other medications.
Side effects from Enterosgel are usually rare and may include digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea. If you experience unusual or serious side effects, contact your doctor.
Remember that "Enterosgel" is not a panacea for hangovers, and its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body and the degree of intoxication. It is also important to observe moderation in alcohol consumption and to drink responsibly.
Alesorb Gel
"Alesorb Gel" is a sorbent that is used to bind and remove toxins, breakdown products and other harmful substances from the body. The mechanism of its action in hangover is that it promotes absorption and reduces the concentration of harmful substances in the gastrointestinal tract, which can improve the general condition and symptoms of hangover.
Thedosage of "Alesorb Gel" may vary depending on individual needs and instructions on the package. It is generally recommended to take it diluted in water. Follow the directions on the package or your doctor's instructions.
Contraindications and side effects are usually minimal with sorbents, but may still include:
Contraindications:
- Individual intolerance to the components of the drug.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with ulcers, bleeding and other acute conditions (in such cases the use of sorbents may be undesirable).
Side effects:
- Rare cases of allergic reactions such as rash, itching or skin rash.
It is important to keep in mind that Alesorb Gel is not a panacea for hangovers and its effectiveness may be limited. To prevent hangovers or reduce symptoms such as headache and nausea, it is best to consume alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether. If you have a serious drinking problem, seek help from a doctor or addiction specialist.
Filtrum STI
"Filtrum STI" (lignin) is a drug that is commonly used in medicine to bind and remove various toxins and substances from the body. It can be used for some types of poisoning, but its effectiveness and safety as a hangover remedy is questionable.
The mechanism of action of Filterum STI for hangovers, if used, may be related to its ability to absorb some toxins and harmful substances. Theoretically, it may help reduce some hangover symptoms associated with toxins that are produced when alcohol is processed in the body. However, the effectiveness of Filtrum STI in this context has not been scientifically proven, and there are no widely accepted recommendations for its use to treat hangovers.
Dosage, contraindications and side effects may depend on the specific drug and manufacturer's recommendations. Before using "Filtrum STI" or similar products, it is recommended to consult a doctor to learn about the recommendations for use and possible risks.
Polysorb or enterosgel for hangover: what is better?
The choice between "Polysorb" and "Enterosgel" in the treatment of hangovers may depend on individual preferences and availability of drugs. Both sorbents have similar mechanisms of action and can be used to relieve hangover symptoms. Below is a brief comparison of the two drugs:
-
Polysorb:
- Mechanism of Action: Silica gel-based Polysorb can bind and remove toxins and bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Dosage: Dosage may vary depending on the manufacturer and form of release. Usually taken as a suspended powder diluted in water.
- Contraindications and side effects: Polysorb is usually well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. There are few contraindications, but it should be taken with caution for peptic ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum.
-
Enterosgel:
- Mechanism of action: Enterosgel based on polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate also adsorbs toxins and bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Dosage: Dosage may vary depending on the manufacturer's instructions. It is taken as a gel or suspension diluted in water.
- Contraindications and side effects: Enterosgel is usually well tolerated and rarely causes side effects. There are few contraindications, but should also be taken with caution for peptic ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum.
Both drugs can be effective in relieving some hangover symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. Choosing between the two may be a matter of individual preference and affordability. Unless you have certain medical contraindications, you can try one of them and evaluate its effectiveness in your particular case. It is also important to follow the instructions for the drug and consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about their use.