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Sucralfate description. Sucralfate (soo-KRAL-fate ) is used to treat and prevent duodenal ulcers. Sucralfate may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Sucralfate works by forming a ``barrier'' or ``coating'' over the ulcer. This protects the ulcer from the acid of the stomach, allowing it to heal. Sucralfate contains an aluminum salt. Sucralfate is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Oral suspension (U.S. and Canada) Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Why prescribed Sucralfate. Sucralfate is used to treat ulcers. It adheres to damaged ulcer tissue and protects against acid and enzymes so healing can occur. Sucralfate is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. How used Sucralfate. Sucralfate comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken four times a day, 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Take sucralfate on an empty stomach, 2 hours after or 1 hour before meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sucralfate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Shake liquid sucralfate well before measuring doses. Sucralfate must be taken regularly to be effective. It may take up to 8 weeks for ulcers to heal. Brand names: - Apo-sucralfate - Carafate - Sucralfate - Sulcrate - Sulcrate Suspension Plus |