Do you often get stomach ulcers or gastritis? Sometimes your doctor may tell you that you have a stomach ulcer, or 'ulcer'. So, a special liquid medicine for this is called Sucralfate. You probably have a lot of questions about this medicine. Today, we will talk about this simply and in a way that you can understand.
What is Sucralfate? How does it work?
Simply put, Sucralfate is a medicine that heals your stomach ulcers. The way it works is amazing. Imagine if you had a wound on your arm or leg, you would put a Band-Aid on it, right? It protects the wound from the outside environment and helps it heal faster. That's what this medicine does.
When the sucralfate liquid enters the stomach, it combines with the stomach acid to form a protective coating over the ulcer, like a plaster. This coating completely prevents the ulcer from being damaged by stomach acids, enzymes, and bile. This protection allows the ulcer to heal quickly and without any obstruction. This does not reduce stomach acid production like other gastritis pills, but rather protects the ulcer.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although sucralfate is a very safe medication, it may interact with some of your health conditions. Therefore, before starting this medication, be sure to tell your doctor about the following:
| Situation you need to report | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have kidney disease | A small amount of the aluminum in sucralfate is absorbed into the body. Although it is easily eliminated by healthy kidneys, it can accumulate in the body in people with kidney disease. Therefore, this is very important. |
| If you have allergies to sucralfate or any other medicine or food | If you have had a previous allergy, informing your doctor about it can help prevent a severe allergic reaction. |
| If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant | Although generally considered safe, it is essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | There is still no complete data on whether this medicine passes to the baby through breast milk. Therefore, it is best to talk to your doctor and make a decision. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medicine, you need to use it correctly. Remember these steps carefully.
- Since this is a liquid , shake the bottle well before using it. This will mix the ingredients well.
- Use only the special cap, oral syringe, or spoon that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons or rice spoons , as they will not give an accurate measurement.
- You should take this before meals, on an empty stomach . It is usually said to be taken four times a day (one hour before three main meals and at bedtime). But take it exactly as your doctor tells you.
- Continue using the medication until your doctor tells you to stop. Even if you think your symptoms have subsided, it is important to complete the prescribed course of treatment, as it takes time for the wound to heal completely.
- If you are taking an antacid such as Gaviscon, take it 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after taking Sucralfate. Taking it together may interfere with the way Sucralfate works.
- If you are giving this medicine to small children, you should give it exactly as the doctor says, in the amount he says. Take special care with that.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Everyone forgets things. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, within an hour or two), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
This usually does not cause serious poisoning. However, if you think you have taken more than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, it is safest to call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Other medications that may interact with Sucralfate
Sucralfate can interfere with the absorption of some other medications you are taking. Therefore, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
The most important thing is to take Sucralfate 2 hours after taking any other medication, if you are taking it. This will help to prevent any potential interactions between the two medications.
Below are some of the main medications that may interact with Sucralfate.
| Drug category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Some antibiotics | Ciprofloxacin, Norfloxacin, Ofloxacin |
| Medicines for heart disease | Digoxin, Quinidine |
| Other medications for gastritis | Cimetidine, Ranitidine |
| Thyroid hormones | Thyroxine |
| Other | Phenytoin (a medicine used for fits), Ketoconazole (an antifungal), Warfarin (a medicine used to prevent blood clotting), Theophylline (a medicine used for asthma) |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, Sucralfate can cause minor side effects, but these are usually not serious.
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Severe allergic reaction | This is very rare, but if you experience skin rashes, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, it can be serious and you should seek medical advice immediately. |
| Common side effects that are nothing to worry about (but tell your doctor if they persist) | |
| Constipation | This is the most common side effect seen among people taking Sucralfate. It can be controlled by drinking plenty of water and eating foods high in fiber (fruits, vegetables). |
If your symptoms do not improve, or if they seem to be getting worse, be sure to see your doctor again . Also, do not give this medicine to anyone else without talking to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Sucralfate is a medicine that forms a protective coating over stomach ulcers and helps them heal.
- This medicine should always be taken on an empty stomach, about an hour before meals .
- Shake the bottle well before use. Use the correct measure.
- If you are taking an antacid like Gaviscon, take Sucralfate 30 minutes apart .
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially if you have kidney disease.
- The most common side effect is constipation, which can be controlled by drinking plenty of water and eating a diet high in fiber.
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