Sucralfate is a gastrointestinal mucosal protectant primarily used to treat acid-related gastrointestinal diseases. Its active component binds to damaged mucosal areas, forming a protective barrier that reduces erosion by gastric acid and digestive enzymes. Common indications include gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and the prevention or treatment of stress ulcers. Its mechanism of action differs from other acid-neutralizing drugs; it does not directly neutralize stomach acid but instead promotes physical repair of the mucosal barrier.
In addition to treating ulcers, Sucralfate is also used as an adjunct in the management of gastrointestinal bleeding and may alleviate symptoms caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This medication has localized action with low systemic absorption, resulting in a smaller hepatic and renal metabolic burden, making it suitable for specific patient populations.
The generic name of this medication is Sucralfate. Common commercial brand names include:
Different formulations from various manufacturers may include capsules, suspensions, or tablets, but the main ingredient remains Sucralfate.
Sucralfate is classified as a "mucosal protectant" and a "gastrointestinal therapeutic agent." It is also categorized as a cationic complex drug because its molecular structure contains aluminum ions that bind to proteins on the ulcer surface. This classification distinguishes it from antacids (such as sodium bicarbonate) or proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole).
Primary indications include:
In some cases, physicians may also prescribe it for gastrointestinal mucosal damage caused by radiation therapy.
Mild side effects include:
These symptoms usually occur early in treatment and may diminish with continued use.
Seek immediate medical attention for serious side effects:
If any of the above symptoms occur, discontinue medication and contact healthcare professionals immediately.
Long-term use may lead to increased blood aluminum levels; regular monitoring of renal function is recommended.
Sucralfate can interfere with the absorption of other medications; attention should be paid to:
Consult your doctor before taking other medications.
The standard adult dose for gastric ulcers is:
Patients with severe ulcers may require a higher frequency of dosing.
Take on an empty stomach with 200 ml of warm water. Tablets should be swallowed whole without chewing, and suspensions should be shaken well before use to ensure even distribution.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if the next dose is due within less than 2 hours, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for missed doses to avoid increasing the risk of side effects.
Overdose may cause severe constipation, intestinal obstruction, or hypocalcemia. If overdose is suspected:
Do not attempt to treat severe overdose cases on your own.
Great, the user needs me to generate a list of frequently asked questions about Sucralfate (Aluminum Hydroxide), written in Traditional Chinese, following their formatting requirements. First, I need to ensure that I do not repeat basic information already covered in the main article, such as drug definition or basic mechanism. The user emphasizes practicality, involving medication methods, side effect management, drug interactions, duration of use, and dietary considerations.
First, regarding administration, they may ask whether it can be taken simultaneously with other medications, as patients might be using multiple drugs and want to know about timing intervals. Next, for side effect management, they might inquire what to do if constipation occurs, since Sucralfate is known to cause constipation. Then, in terms of drug interactions, they could ask whether it affects the absorption of other drugs like antibiotics or antacids, since Sucralfate may interfere with absorption and require spacing of doses.
Next, patients may be concerned about whether long-term use is appropriate, as some medications are not suitable for prolonged use, so they need to know recommended treatment durations and precautions. Lastly, regarding diet, they might ask whether certain foods should be avoided, such as high-fiber foods that could help alleviate constipation, or whether dietary adjustments are necessary. These questions cover medication guidance, side effect management, drug interactions, treatment duration, and dietary advice, ensuring each question is independent and unique.
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