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Description Used to treat gastric ulcers. Stomach ulceration in humans is a prominent medical condition and there has long been pressure to develop effective and convenient ways to address this problem. Until relatively recently, we relied on simply neutralizing stomach acid by pouring alkaline solutions (i.e. alka seltzer, Tums, Rolaids etc.) into the stomach. In fact, ulceration is a complicated process and there are many ways to address it. Sucralfate was developed as an adjunctive treatment for stomach ulcers in humans. Sucralfate is a sucrose aluminum hydroxide compound that forms a gel-like webbing over ulcerated or eroded tissues serving as a sort of bandage. It is effective in the upper GI tract: stomach, duodenum (upper small intestine), and possible esophagus. Sucralfate not only "bandages" the ulcer but accumulates healing tissue factors in its bandage; it not only protects the ulcer but actively assists in the healing process. What is this Medication used for?Sucralfate may be used in any condition associated with stomach ulceration. Common examples include: toxin ingestion, kidney failure, liver failure, certain forms of cancer, and megaesophagus. It is also often given with medications that are associated with stomach ulceration such as pyroxcam (feldene). One does of Sucralfate last approximately 6 hours after it is taken orally. What are the side effects?Because sucralfate is a locally acting medication and is not absorbed into the body it has very limited side effects potential. Approximately 2% of humans taking sucralfate report constipation as a side effect. What special Precautions are there?The following medications do not work well in patients taking concurrent sucralfate: Cimetidine (tagament HB) Tetracycline Phenytoin (a heart and seizure medication) Digoxin (a heart medication) This problem is solved by staggering sucralfate administration with the administration of these other medications by at least 2 hours. Sucralfate requires stomach acid in order to form its protective get. If possible, it should be given 30 minutes prior to the administration of an antacid. Despite the presence of sucrose in the molecular formula of this medication, there is no problem administering sucralfate to diabetic patients. Sucralfate must be given four times daily in order to provide a continuous protective layer on the ulcer. This is an inconvenient schedule but if doses are skipped, the ulcer goes unprotected for that period of time. This information is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advise concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for service provided by your veterinarian.
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