Venous circulation disorders are common among people aged 25 to 45 years. The initial stage of the disease, in which conservative treatment is possible, in most cases remains unnoticed by humans, so surgical intervention is required to eliminate the disorder. When varicose veins are diagnosed early, treatment is carried out using highly effective medications, which phlebologists include phlebopha and diosmin.
Specialists at the Yusupov Hospital, who treat vascular diseases, regularly consult patients. Thus, a common question that a phlebologist is asked about is the effectiveness of the drugs phlebof or phlebodia, which is better for varicose veins.
Release forms and composition of the drug
The medicine is available in 2 forms:
- pills;
- gel.
Its main active ingredient is diosmin (1 tablet contains 600 mg). In tablets, additional substances are gelatin, starch, cellulose and magnesium stearate.
The tablets have an elongated shape and a stripe in the middle. Their color can range from gray-brown to yellow-gray. They often contain small inclusions of a lighter or darker shade (compared to the main color).
In addition to the main ingredient, the gel contains menthol, water, chestnut extract, wax, petroleum jelly, menthol, glycerin, alcohol (cetearyl), parabens.
Pharmacological properties
The medicine belongs to angioprotective drugs (drugs used to treat various diseases of the cardiovascular system).
The drug normalizes metabolic processes in the vascular walls, improves blood flow in capillaries, reduces and eliminates edematous processes in tissues, optimizes the properties and parameters of blood (viscosity, erythrocyte concentration, hematocrit, etc.), relieves the inflammatory process, improves the penetration of oxygen into the body tissues.
The active component diosmin belongs to bioflavonoids - safe substances produced by plants.
They contribute to:
- improving blood circulation in the body;
- strengthening the walls of blood vessels through which blood moves;
- preventing the formation of malignant tumors;
- preventing the development of allergies of various origins;
- reducing and blocking the formation of free radicals;
- better absorption and assimilation of ascorbic acid.
Diosmin in the drug reduces capillary permeability, increases venous tone, the frequency of capillary contraction, and reduces the stretching of vascular walls.
It also promotes:
- reducing blood pressure in the lymph;
- improving the functioning of capillaries and their elasticity;
- Reduced ability of blood leukocytes to connect with capillary walls.
The chestnut extract included in the gel provides additional toning of the veins and prevents the development of sclerotic disorders of the vascular walls. Menthol has a cooling effect, helping to quickly relieve tired legs.
Phlebofa (Diosmin): mechanism of action
Phlebopha and diosmin are widely used in the treatment of varicose veins, as they have a venotonic effect. When a patient contacts a phlebologist with a question about whether diosmin or phlebodia is better for varicose veins, specialists from the Yusupov Hospital explain that these products are analogues, but they are produced by different manufacturers and differ in cost. The key component of phlebopha is diosmin, it is the one that improves the condition of blood vessels and helps restore microcirculation.
Medicines used for varicose veins act on blood vessels, resulting in the elimination of venous congestion, and also increase the outflow of lymph. Diosmin and phlebopha have an anti-inflammatory effect and relieve the main manifestations of varicose veins.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
After administration, the medication enters the bloodstream after 2 hours, and its full concentration is achieved after 5 hours. The medication is distributed evenly in the walls of the veins in the legs. To a lesser extent, the medication spreads and accumulates in the veins of internal organs (lungs, kidneys, liver) and other tissues of the body.
The accumulation of the active substance occurs selectively (in problem areas) in the veins after 9 hours. The drug does not move and continues its effect for 4 days. The drug is primarily excreted from the body by the kidneys (about 80% is excreted in the urine).
Excretion through the intestines accounts for 11%. Phlebopha is excreted partially and with bile (up to 3%). The period of elimination of the drug from the body is 48 hours.
Phlebofa cream-gel in childhood, pregnancy and breastfeeding
The drug containing bioflavonoids is not used in pediatric practice. Data on its safety for children have not been recorded.
Expectant mothers and nursing women should also avoid creams based on diosmin and horse chestnut. Therapy with Phlebof cream is allowed only if the risk to the mother's health is very high.
In this case, when breastfeeding, the process must be stopped until the active substances are completely removed from the mother's body.
Indications for use
Phlebopha is used not only for the treatment of varicose veins.
According to consumer reviews, the medicine is highly effective in a number of other health conditions:
- Chronic diseases of the venous vessels.
- Fragility, weakening of blood vessels.
- Problems with blood circulation.
- Venous insufficiency, accompanied by cramps, swelling, pain, and changes in the skin.
- As part of complex therapy for hemorrhoids (relieves unpleasant symptoms).
The gel form is used to relieve discomfort (heaviness, fatigue, swelling) in the legs. The drug is used as a preventive measure for the formation of a venous network in the lower extremities. Additionally, the gel cares for the skin, making it smoother and giving comfort and lightness.
When is Phlebof prescribed?
The medication helps thin the blood, so it will be useful for venous insufficiency. The medicine prevents thrombosis and strengthens blood vessels. As part of complex treatment, Phlebofu is used to treat all forms of hemorrhoids. The drug is prescribed to adult patients, except for early pregnancy and lactation.
Phlebopha is a venotonic, a plant flavonoid. The medication is effective for:
- Varicose veins of various stages;
- Blood microcirculation disorders;
- Acute and chronic forms of hemorrhoids.
The drug is suitable for monotherapy; it is also used in combination regimens. Flebof is also prescribed by surgeons after surgery to prevent relapses. The range of use of the product is expanded by gastrointestinal diseases such as peptic ulcers or gastritis. Single use is convenient for elderly patients with poor memory and busy people. The specificity of vascular diseases requires treatment with venotonics and phlebotonics only under the supervision of a physician.
Contraindications
Problems with veins and the appearance of varicose veins appear mainly in people over 30 years of age. Therefore, the use of the drug in pediatrics for the treatment of children under 18 years of age is prohibited.
Phlebofa is also contraindicated for use during the lactation period, since there is no data on the safety of its use. You should stop using the medication in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. It is not recommended to use the medication if you are allergic to its constituent substances, or if you have liver disease.
How to replace Phlebofu
For Phlebofa, only the original venotonic Phlebodia 600 will be a complete analogue, since their composition is completely the same, including the dosage of diosmin. Of the incomplete substitutes, in which diosmin is present in smaller quantities (450 mg), and the recipe is supplemented with other active flavonoid substances, in particular, hesperidin (50 mg), you can choose Venarus, Detralex, Venolek.
On thematic forums, the generic is often compared with the original: Phlebopha or Phlebodia - which is better? Phlebodia 600 is an original French drug created in the Innotek International laboratory. The medicine has a solid evidence base of effectiveness and safety, as it has successfully passed numerous clinical trials.
The Russian venotonic Phlebofa is developed on the basis of the same active component diosmin, therefore it is a complete analogue of Phlebodia with the same indications and contraindications. But studies of this level have not been conducted for the generic, so the likelihood of undesirable consequences for the analogue is always higher than for the original medicine. In any case, the price is consistent with the quality, and everyone will choose an option according to their own criteria. The main thing is to coordinate your choice with a phlebologist.
Instructions for use, dosage
Phlebofa for varicose veins (reviews indicate the effectiveness of the drug, provided it is used correctly) has certain features of use depending on the form produced.
Pills
Tablets for lymphovenous insufficiency and varicose veins are taken for 60 days. The medicine should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, 1 tablet per day.
In severe forms of the disease, the course of treatment can be extended. At the same time, continuous use of the medication should not exceed 4 months. At the end of treatment, a break is taken for 2-3 months and, if necessary, a repeat course is given.
Features of the use of the drug for other diseases are presented in the table below:
| Disease | How to use? | Admission course |
| Microcirculation disturbance | 1 tablet per day. Should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. | 1-2 months |
| Lymphovenous insufficiency during pregnancy | 1 tablet 1 r. in a day | Stop taking the drug 14-20 days before birth |
| Hemorrhoids (with exacerbation) | 2-3 tablets per day with meals | Accepted within 7 days. If necessary, the course can be extended for 1-2 months, but you should take 1 tablet per day. |
If venous disease is accompanied by trophic changes (for example, ulcers appear), treatment can be extended to six months or more. In each individual case, the dosage regimen is adjusted by the treating phlebologist (a doctor who treats vascular diseases) or a family doctor, depending on the symptoms and characteristics of the course of the disease.
Gel, ointment
The cream must be applied to previously cleansed skin of the feet. It should be used regularly 2 times. per day in the morning and evening (preferably before bedtime). The gel is applied evenly with massage, light movements. The drug has a light texture, so it is quickly absorbed and does not leave a feeling of stickiness or greasy film on the skin.
Treatment with Phlebopha can be combined with special exercises for the legs - this will enhance the effect of the drug and have a positive effect on a person’s well-being.
The following exercises are simple but effective:
- Sit on a chair. Keeping your legs suspended, alternately bend and straighten them (fully) at the ankle joint until you feel tension in your lower leg.
- Stand up straight, lower your arms along your body . Slowly rise onto your toes and lower onto your heels.
- Sit on a chair , keep your legs together and pressed against each other. Slowly raise your legs (toes pointing up) and lower them completely to the floor, placing them on your heels.
Reasons for the development of varicose veins
In the veins of the legs, especially in the calf area, strong pressure is formed - the cause of swelling of the legs. In this case, movement plays a special role, since the calf muscles work when moving: by pressing on the veins, they stimulate the outflow of venous blood from the legs. The less a person moves, the more they suffer from excess weight. Especially if he takes hormonal drugs - this increases the load on the venous system.
These factors are the cause of venous insufficiency, which is manifested by swelling of the calves, pain, heat, redness, and discomfort in the legs. In the initial stage, sometimes my legs ache in the evenings, and periodically I have cramps at night. After rest, the unpleasant symptoms disappear, but the disease remains. The most dangerous complication of venous disease is thrombosis or thrombophlebitis - inflammation of the veins.
If the veins are diseased, dilated, and thrombosis forms, there is a high risk of the blood clot detaching, which can travel to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism, a common cause of death.
If complications are not prevented in time, all vein diseases end the same way: non-healing trophic ulcers on the legs, oncology.
In men, vein diseases are caused by congenital pathology, if someone in the family suffered from similar pathologies. Excess weight and various injuries are also of great importance. In women, venous insufficiency develops a little differently, but 4 times more often. The reasons are the anatomical features of the structure of the vein walls and pregnancy. During pregnancy, along with the growth of the fetus and the enlargement of the uterus, venous pressure in the legs increases. During this period, compression therapy plays a special role. To reduce the risk of venous insufficiency, you should wear compression stockings.
If most of us are doomed to such a sad experience, can we hope that this will happen as late as possible, and varicose veins will be mild? If you start treatment at the initial stage and engage in prevention, you can actually stop the development of deficiency and even completely avoid the consequences.
Side effects
Phlebopha for varicose veins, reviews of which indicate a rare occurrence of side effects, in some cases can cause disturbances in well-being. They can manifest themselves in the form of allergic reactions (both when using tablets and cream), digestive tract disorders (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, discomfort).
Less commonly, headaches, dizziness, feelings of weakness, fatigue and malaise may occur. If one of these signs intensifies or other unpleasant symptoms appear, you should stop taking the medication and consult your doctor.
Side effects
As a result of clinical studies, adverse allergic reactions in the area of application were identified:
- redness;
- burning;
- itching
In rare cases, patients experienced urticaria and exacerbation of bronchial asthma provoked by metol vapor.
With simultaneous oral administration of diosmin it is possible:
- disruption of the stomach (pain, discomfort in the epigastric region);
- headache.
Overdose
The drug does not have a toxicological effect, therefore, with a slight overdose it will not cause a deterioration in health.
If you take a large number of tablets, the following phenomena may occur:
- bouts of vomiting;
- nausea;
- pain in the digestive organs;
- diarrhea;
- headache.
These symptoms can also develop if Phlebofa in the form of a gel is accidentally ingested into the body. At the first signs of intoxication, you should seek medical help.
If the medicinal cream gets into your eyes or mucous membranes, rinse them immediately with clean, warm water.
special instructions
To obtain maximum effectiveness from medication treatment, it is recommended to follow some instructions:
- Lead an active lifestyle - walk more, do special gymnastics.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Eat low-calorie foods, as excess weight negatively affects blood circulation.
- Wear, if necessary, special stockings that improve venous circulation.
- If one or more doses of tablets are missed, further treatment continues according to the standard regimen - without taking additional amounts of medication.
Phlebopha does not have a suppressive effect on the central nervous system, therefore, while taking it, you can drive vehicles and work with automated mechanisms.
Drug interactions
When Phlebofa is taken simultaneously with other medications, an increase or decrease in the therapeutic effect of the drug may be observed. For example, Phlebopha increases the effect of serotonin and epinephrine, aimed at constricting blood vessels.
The effectiveness of the drug in combination with hesperidin (a plant flavonoid) increases because it improves the condition of capillaries, increases blood flow, reduces blood pressure and the permeability of vascular walls. Drinking alcohol during treatment with Phlebopha does not reduce the effectiveness of the medicine, but it is better to avoid drinking alcohol.
Analogs
Phlebofa for varicose veins (reviews of the drug indicate that it does not always provide the required effectiveness) can be replaced with analogues.
The following drugs have a therapeutic effect similar to Phlebopha:
- Phlebodia 600 – a medicine intended to improve blood circulation in blood vessels, improve blood supply and metabolic processes in the body’s tissues. Its use helps to reduce stretching of veins and venous stagnation, increasing the tone of venous vessels and their density.
The medication also helps reduce blood pressure in the veins, which eliminates swelling and pain. At the initial stage of varicose veins and when there is a feeling of heaviness in the legs, Phlebodia is taken 1 tablet per day for 2 months. The medicine should be taken on an empty stomach in the morning. If lymphovenous insufficiency is accompanied by pain, swelling and cramps, treatment is extended for another 4 months. If ulcers form, the duration of taking the drug can be increased to 6 months or more. - Venolek. The active component of the drug is diosmin. The medicine also contains another natural flavonoid, hesperidin. Together, these substances help reduce the distensibility of veins and capillary fragility, improve blood circulation, preventing the formation of blood clots and venous stagnation. Constant use of the medicine can quickly reduce the symptoms of venous insufficiency (pain, swelling, the appearance of venous networks in the legs). Venolek is also used as part of complex treatment for acute hemorrhoids. The tablets are taken with meals twice a day (at lunchtime and in the evening). When treating hemorrhoids, take 6 tablets per day, divided into 2 doses (in the first 4 days). The drug can be taken during pregnancy only as prescribed by the treating gynecologist.
- Glivenol is used to treat varicose veins at different stages. Its active component is tribenoside, which relieves pain in the legs, fights swelling and inflammation. The course of treatment for varicose veins is less than 1 month. Improvement in well-being, according to reviews, occurs after 7 days of use. The daily dosage of the drug is from 200 to 400 mg of the drug, divided into 2-3 doses (1 tablet contains 400 mg of the active ingredient). When treating hemorrhoids (in the acute phase), the medicine is taken rectally twice a day.
Analogues of the gel form of Phlebofa are presented in the table below:
| Name | Active substance | Action | How to use? |
| Phlebodia cream-gel | Diosmin | Relieves the feeling of discomfort in the legs, heaviness and fatigue. It prevents the formation of venous networks on the legs, and also has a caring effect, nourishing and toning the skin. | Must be used regularly 2 times a day. in a day. The gel is applied to the leg area from the ankle to the thigh with massage and light movements. |
| Venolife | Dexpanthenol, heparin, troxerutin | Improves blood flow and metabolic processes, prevents the formation of blood clots, and has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. The drug also helps restore damaged blood vessels, reduces swelling and prevents the development of stagnant blood processes in the veins. | The cream is applied to the affected area, as well as around it 2-3 r. in a day. It must be rubbed into the skin with light movements. Duration of use is 2-3 weeks. |
Diosmin reviews for varicose veins, phlebologists
Specialists at the Yusupov Hospital give a clear answer to the question of whether phlebopha or phlebodia is better for varicose veins. These products are analogues, so they have the same mechanism of action. Phlebologists and other specialists at the Yusupov Hospital are interested in providing high-quality medical services and preserving the patient’s health, therefore, when treating varicose veins, they use highly effective drugs, minimally invasive techniques and various innovative developments.
Phlebofa and diosmin should be used by the patient only as prescribed by a doctor. Specialists in the field of phlebology give preference to these drugs due to the fact that the therapeutic effect is achieved faster compared to other drugs, and adverse reactions of the body occur quite rarely.
The multidisciplinary Yusupov Hospital combines the traditions of attentive and respectful treatment of patients, the European level of service, as well as innovative approaches to the treatment of diseases. Studying world experience in the treatment of varicose veins at conferences and seminars helps improve the quality of services. The professionalism of phlebologists is confirmed by numerous reviews from patients whose vascular condition has improved after undergoing a treatment program.
The Yusupov Hospital has a high level of service, so patients do not need to spend time in queues while waiting for a consultation. If you need a consultation with a phlebologist, contact Yusupov Hospital by phone and choose the most suitable time to visit a specialist.
Terms, conditions of sale and storage
Phlebofa is freely available and does not require a doctor's prescription to purchase it. The shelf life of the tablets is 3 g. They should be stored in a dry place at a temperature not exceeding 25 0C.
Phlebopha for varicose veins
The gel has a shorter shelf life - 2 g. After opening the tube, it is recommended to use it within six months. The optimal storage temperature is 8-15 0C. The gel should not be frozen. The medicine should be kept in a place where children do not have access.
What kind of drug
Phlebofa is a cream-gel from the line of anti-varicose products.
The medication helps eliminate the manifestations of the disease in the early stages of development. Recommended in combination with tablets for oral use. The cream is white to light cream in color, opaque, thick but non-greasy and has a light texture with a metol scent. When applied, it is quickly absorbed.
Packaged in plastic tubes of 50 grams. Made by Russian. Recommended for free sale, but before purchasing you should consult your doctor.
Price
Phlebofa for varicose veins (consumer reviews and prices for medicine are often presented on the official websites of online pharmacies) is a drug that can be purchased in pharmacies in localities or ordered online.
The cost of the medicine depends on the form of release:
- Tablets (30 pcs.) – from 554 rub.
- Gel (50 ml) – from 225 rub.
Phlebofa is an effective drug used to treat varicose veins. According to consumer reviews, it quickly relieves unpleasant symptoms, is easily tolerated and rarely causes side effects.
