Sucralfate is the active ingredient of Ulsanic.
General information
Sucralfate is prescribed to treat ulcers of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach, the duodenum. It is also effective in treating gastro-oesophageal reflux, the backward flow of stomach acid contents into the oesophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.
Sucralfate does not neutralise stomach acid, but instead forms a gel when reacting with stomach acid. This gel forms a protective film over the ulcerated or inflamed area of the stomach or oesophagus and protects the affected area for up to six hours.
For sucralfate to be effective, it has to be taken regularly. If compliance is met, this medication will show favourable results.
Little of the drug is absorbed systemically and side effects are minimal.
How does sucralfate work?
Sucralfate forms a gel when reacting with stomach acid. This gel forms a protective film over the ulcerated or inflamed area of the stomach or oesophagus.
Fast facts
Drug schedule: schedule 0
Available as: sucralfate is available as tablets and suspension
What does it do ? sucralfate coats ulcers and speeds up healing
Overdose risk: low
Dependence risk: low
Is sucralfate available as a generic? no
Is sucralfate available on prescription only? no
User information
Onset of effect: within 12 hours
Duration of action: up to 6 hours
Dietary advice : sucralfate should best be taken 60 minutes prior to a meal and at bedtime on an empty stomach
Stopping this medicine: do not stop taking sucralfate without consulting your doctor. Symptoms may recur with premature discontinuation
Prolonged use: safety has not been established for treatment exceeding 12 weeks. Vitamin A, D, E and K may be depleted with extended use and supplements may be needed.
Special precautions
Consult your doctor before using this drug if:
- you have kidney disease
- you are taking any other medication
Pregnancy: avoid. It is unknown how this medication may affect your baby. Consult your doctor before using this drug, or if you are planning to fall pregnant.
Breastfeeding: this medication is safe use.
Porphyria: avoid. It is unknown how this medication may affect your condition. Consult your doctor before use.
Infants and children: this medication is generally not used in children.
The elderly: no special precautions need to be taken.
Driving and hazardous work: caution is advised as use of this medication may lead to dizziness. Avoid such activities until you know how this medication affects you.
Alcohol: avoid concomitant use of alcohol with this medication it may reduce the efficacy of sucralfate
Possible side effects
Side effect |
Frequency |
Consult your doctor |
Common |
Rare |
Only if severe |
In all cases |
constipation |
|
x |
x |
|
diarrhoea |
|
x |
x |
|
nausea |
|
x |
x |
|
abdominal discomfort |
|
x |
x |
|
indigestion |
|
x |
x |
|
dry mouth |
|
x |
x |
|
dizziness/ drowsiness |
|
x |
x |
|
skin rash/ itchy skin |
|
x |
|
x |
Interactions
Drug interactions
antacids |
reduced effect of sucralfate |
cardiac glycosides |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
cimetidine |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
digoxin |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
ketoconazole |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
phenytoin |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
quinidine |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
quinolone/ tetracycline antibiotics |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
ranitidine |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
thyroxine |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
warfarin |
absorption of this drug may be affected - take at least 3 hours apart from sucralfate |
Disease interactions
Consult your doctor before using this drug if you have kidney disease
Overdose action
A small overdose is no cause for concern. In case of intentional large overdose seek emergency medical attention.
Recommended dosage
Adults: 1g 4 times a day
This material is not intended to substitute medical advice, but is for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician for specific treatment and recommendations.