Adults: 1 g orally 4 times daily, 1 hour before meals and at bedtime
Children: 40–60 mg/kg/day orally in divided doses, usually 4 times daily
Note: Dose should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal effect. Therapy duration: 4–8 weeks or as directed.
Route of Administration
Oral (tablet, suspension)
Mechanism of Action
Sucralfate forms a viscous, adhesive barrier over ulcer sites in the gastrointestinal tract. This protects the mucosa from acid, pepsin, and bile salts, promoting healing without systemic absorption.
Common Adverse Effects
Constipation
Dry mouth
Dizziness (rare)
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Serious Adverse Effects
Hypersensitivity reactions (rare)
Aluminum toxicity in patients with renal impairment (rare)
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to sucralfate or any component
Severe renal impairment (use caution)
Precautions
Take on an empty stomach, 1 hour before meals
Separate administration from other medications by at least 2 hours to avoid binding interactions
Monitor for constipation or abdominal discomfort
Drug Interactions
Antacids – may reduce effectiveness if taken together
Digoxin, phenytoin, fluoroquinolones, warfarin – separate dosing by 2 hours
Other drugs requiring acidic environment – may reduce absorption
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use only if clearly needed; considered relatively safe due to minimal systemic absorption. Excretion in breast milk is negligible.
Patient Counseling
Take on an empty stomach, 1 hour before meals
Do not crush or chew tablets unless directed
Separate other oral medications by at least 2 hours
Report severe constipation, abdominal pain, or allergic reactions