Sucralfate
Indications
Sucralfate is used to treat and help heal ulcers of the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) and the stomach. It is also used to prevent a duodenal ulcer from coming back, and in hospitals to help prevent stress ulcer bleeding in very ill patients. Doctors sometimes use it for reflux-related inflammation of the food pipe.
How It Works
In the acid of the stomach, Sucralfate forms a sticky paste that clings to the ulcer and covers it like a bandage. This protects the ulcer from acid, pepsin and bile so it can heal. Very little of it is absorbed into the blood.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults, active duodenal or stomach ulcer: usually 1 g four times a day, taken 1 hour before meals and at bedtime, or 2 g twice a day, for 4 to 8 weeks or as the doctor advises.
- Preventing a duodenal ulcer from returning: usually 1 g twice a day.
- Take on an empty stomach. Shake the suspension well before use. Tablets may be swallowed whole or dispersed in a little water.
- Children and hospital use: as prescribed.
Interactions
Sucralfate can bind other medicines in the stomach and reduce their absorption, including Ciprofloxacin and other quinolone antibiotics, Tetracycline, Digoxin, Phenytoin, Warfarin, Levothyroxine, Ketoconazole and Theophylline. Take these at least 2 hours before Sucralfate. Do not take antacids within 30 minutes before or after a dose.
Contraindications
Allergy to Sucralfate or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Constipation is the most common side effect. Others include dry mouth, nausea, indigestion, wind, headache and rash.
Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), or difficulty swallowing or a feeling of a blockage in the throat or stomach.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Because very little is absorbed, Sucralfate is generally considered suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding when a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- Kidney disease or dialysis: Sucralfate contains aluminium, which can build up in the body. Use only under medical supervision and avoid other aluminium products.
- Diabetes: some suspensions contain sugar, so blood sugar may need closer checking.
- People who have trouble swallowing or slow stomach emptying, and very ill patients on tube feeding, may rarely develop a solid lump (bezoar) in the stomach.
- Ulcer symptoms can improve before the ulcer has fully healed; finish the prescribed course.
Overdose
Serious harm is unlikely. Stomach discomfort, nausea or constipation may occur. Contact a doctor if a large amount was taken, especially by someone with kidney disease.
Therapeutic Class
Ulcer-protective agent (mucosal protectant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze the suspension.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Sucralfate