Sucralfate
Description
Sucralfate is a medicine used to treat ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It
works by forming a protective layer over the ulcer, shielding it from stomach acid and allowing it to heal naturally. Many people start feeling better within 1 to 2 weeks as the ulcer begins to heal, though relief may vary from person to person. Even if your symptoms improve quickly, it is important to continue taking Sucralfate for the full duration recommended by your doctor, usually around four to eight weeks. This helps ensure the ulcer heals completely and reduces the risk of recurrence. Take the medicine exactly as advised, usually on an empty stomach, and let your doctor know if your symptoms do not improve or if you experience any unusual discomfort.
Uses
- Stomach ulcers
- Ulcers in your bowel
- Inflammation of your stomach lining
- Chronic gastritis
- Stress ulcers
Contraindications
When should one not use Sucralfate
- Allergy to Sucralfate or any of the other ingredients
- If you are on dialysis for kidney problems
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Skin rash
- Dry mouth
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Stomach ache
- Bloating
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Sucralfate during pregnancy?
A:
It is probably safe during pregnancy. The patient should consult with the doctor once before taking this medicine.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Sucralfate while breastfeeding?
A:
If you are breastfeeding, consult a doctor before taking this medicine.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Sucralfate?
A:
It is considered safe to drive after taking this medicine.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Sucralfate?
A:
It is advised to avoid drinking alcohol along with Sucralfate.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
You have kidney problems.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
It works by forming a protective barrier over a stomach ulcer and helps to stop further irritation caused by stomach acid.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Warfarin-used for blood clots
- Quinidine-used for heart problems
- Medicines for infection (antibiotics) such as Tetracycline, Ciprofloxacin or Norfloxacin
- Medicines containing citrates
- Medicines for stomach ulcers such as Cimetidine or Ranitidine
- Levothyroxine-used for thyroid problems
- Sulpiride-used for mental health problems (psychotic episodes)
- Digoxin-used for heart problems
- Phenytoin-used for fits (epilepsy)
- Theophylline-used for asthma or other breathing problems
- Ketoconazole-used for fungal infections
Interactions with food items
There are no known interactions of any food item with Sucralfate.
Dosage
Overdose
Do not increase the prescribed dosage. It doesn’t improve disease symptoms. Consult your doctor if you take an excess of this medicine.
Missed a Dose
If you missed a dose, follow the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can this medication be consumed for the long term?
A: Ideally, no, as the treatment is only meant for eight weeks at the most. Healing starts at 1-2 weeks after administration. Take only for the period prescribed by your doctor.
Q: Will Sucralfate prevent me from getting duodenal ulcers in the future?
A: No, the treatment is only temporary. Your ulcers will heal completely by taking medicine but it is exclusively localized to the site of the ulcer. It will not prevent it from arising in the future.
References
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Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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