Sucralfate

Products

Sucralfate was commercially available in many countries since the year 1985 in the form of tablets, as a suspension, and as granules (Ulcogant). As of 2016, it is no longer available in many countries. It can be imported from abroad or replaced by other drugs.

Structure and properties

Sucralfate is a basic aluminum sucrose sulfate. It exists as a white to almost white amorphous powder that is practically insoluble in water.

Effects

Sucralfate (ATC A02BX02) acts on the mucosa of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Particularly at mucosal lesions, it forms complexes with proteins to protect them from acid. Sucralfate binds pepsin and bile acids and also promotes the body’s own mucosa-protecting factors (e.g., mucus formation, bicarbonate secretion). Sucralfate acts mainly locally in the digestive tract and is hardly absorbed into the body.

Indications

Sucralfate is used for the treatment and recurrence prevention of gastric or intestinal ulceration and for the treatment of reflux esophagitis.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. The drugs are taken fasting (on an empty stomach) two to four times daily, depending on the indication.

Contraindications

Sucralfate is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Sucralfate may inhibit the absorption of various drugs and reduce their bioavailability (eg, antibiotics). Therefore, other drugs should be administered at least two hours apart.

Adverse effects

The most common potential adverse effect is constipation. Occasionally, nausea and dry mouth may occur.