Sucralfate: What it Does and How to Use It
Sucralfate is a medicine that protects damaged stomach or duodenal lining. It works like a bandage—when it mixes with stomach acid it forms a sticky coating over ulcers and irritated areas. That barrier helps acid and enzymes stop irritating the wound so the tissue can heal. Unlike antacids, it doesn’t neutralize acid; it shields the sore spot.
How sucralfate is used and who needs it
Doctors commonly prescribe sucralfate for active duodenal ulcers and sometimes for stomach ulcers or erosive esophagitis. Hospitals may use it for stress ulcers or when bleeding ulcers need a protective coating. If you have chronic heartburn or GERD, other drugs like PPIs or H2 blockers are usually preferred—sucralfate’s main role is direct protection, not long-term acid control.
If you have kidney disease, tell your provider—sucralfate contains aluminum, and people with poor kidney function can retain aluminum, which causes problems. Also mention pregnancy or breastfeeding; systemic absorption is low, but your doctor will want to weigh risks and benefits.
Dosing, timing, and drug interactions
Typical adult dosing is 1 gram taken four times a day: one hour before breakfast, lunch, dinner, and at bedtime. The goal is to have sucralfate on the stomach lining when meals hit. It comes as tablets and a liquid suspension; shake the liquid well before use. Don’t crush enteric-coated pills that aren’t meant to be crushed.
Sucralfate can bind other drugs in the gut and reduce their absorption. Common examples: fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin), tetracyclines, phenytoin, digoxin, warfarin, and levothyroxine. To avoid problems, separate sucralfate from these medicines by at least two hours—take the other drug first, then sucralfate later. Antacids may reduce sucralfate’s coating action; try to space antacids at least 30 minutes away, but ask your clinician for exact timing.
Side effects are usually mild. Constipation is the most common issue. Rare but serious problems include aluminum toxicity in patients with kidney failure and allergic reactions—if you notice severe stomach pain, black stools, worsening heartburn, or signs of allergy (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), get medical help.
Practical tips: take sucralfate on an empty stomach for best effect; keep a consistent schedule to protect the ulcer when meals happen; if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose—don’t double up. Store the liquid in the fridge if the label says so, and finish the full course your doctor prescribes unless told otherwise.
If your pain or bleeding doesn’t improve in a week or two, follow up. Sucralfate helps heal by protecting tissue, but persistent symptoms can mean a different diagnosis or a need for stronger acid control. Ask your provider if you’re unsure how sucralfate fits with other medicines you take—especially blood thinners, thyroid meds, or antibiotics.
Want more practical drug guides? Check the site’s articles on ulcer care, drug interactions, and safe online pharmacies for more reading and tips tailored to everyday patients.
