Sucralfate

Sucralfate is a gastro-duodenal cytoprotective medication. In the acidic environment of the stomach, it binds to proteins exposed at an ulcer base and forms an adherent protective layer. It also complexes with pepsin and bile. The result is local shielding of damaged mucosa from acid and digestive enzymes. It behaves more like a patch over an injured surface than an acid switch. Sucralfate does not directly suppress acid secretion, eradicate Helicobacter pylori, or establish why an ulcer developed. Persistent pain, recurrent bleeding, or failure to improve still requires reassessment of the underlying problem. Canadian product information includes treatment of duodenal ulcer and non-malignant gastric ulcer, prevention of duodenal-ulcer recurrence, and prevention of gastrointestinal hemorrhage from stress ulceration in critically ill patients. The indication determines the regimen; these doses are not interchangeable.