Sucralfate

Sucralfate is used for a short time (up to 8 weeks) to treat an active duodenal ulcer.

Sucralfate mainly acts on the lining of the stomach and is not absorbed well into the body. Sucralfate sticks to the ulcer sites and protects them from acids, enzymes, and bile salts.

Sucralfate can help heal an active ulcer, but it will not stop future ulcers from happening.

Sucralfate may also be used for other reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take sucralfate on an empty stomach.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar regularly. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood sugar levels.

The liquid form of this medicine should never be injected through a needle into the body, or death may occur. Sucralfate oral suspension is to be taken only by mouth.

It may take 2 to 8 weeks before you receive the full benefit of taking sucralfate. Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve.

Your doctor may want you to keep taking sucralfate at a lower dose once your active ulcer has healed. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze.

The liquid form of sucralfate should never be injected through a needle into the body, or death may occur.

You should not use sucralfate if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• diabetes;
• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); or
• trouble swallowing tablets.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of sucralfate.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of sucralfate may include:

• constipation, diarrhea;
• nausea, vomiting, gas, indigestion;
• itching, rash;
• dizziness, drowsiness;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• headache; or
• back pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Duodenal Ulcer:

1 g orally 4 times a day-Duration of therapy: 4 to 8 weeksComments:-Each dose should be taken on an empty stomach.-For most patients, treatment should continue for 4 to 8 weeks; however, treatment may be stopped early if healing is demonstrated on x-ray/endoscopic tests.-Antacids may be given, but use should be separated by at least 30 minutes.Use: Short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers

Usual Adult Dose for Duodenal Ulcer Prophylaxis:

Oral Tablets: 1 g orally 2 times a day-Duration of therapy: Up to 1 yearComments:-Each dose should be taken on an empty stomach.-Controlled studies did not extend beyond 12 months.Use: Maintenance therapy for patients after healing of acute duodenal ulcers

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after you take sucralfate. Sucralfate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth.

Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for sucralfate to work in your stomach. Avoid taking an antacid within 30 minutes before or after taking sucralfate.

Other drugs may affect sucralfate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.