Sucralfate

(soo-kral-fate)

Other names for this medication: Carafate

•Sucralfate is used to treat and prevent irritation and ulcers of the mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines.

•Give on an empty stomach.

•Give any other medications or supplements at least 2 hours before giving sucralfate.

•Crushing tablets and dissolving them in a small amount of water just before administration is recommended.

•Shake liquids well before using.

•This medication is usually well tolerated, but constipation and vomiting are possible.

Description

•Gastroprotectant

•Available as tablets and oral suspensions

Uses

This medication is not FDA-approved specifically for animals, but it is approved for use in humans. At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in other species (extra-label), such as for:

•Treatment and prevention of irritation or ulcers in the mouth, throat, stomach, and intestines in dogs, cats, and other species

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking. This medication can prevent other drugs from working well when given at the same time.

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use:

•In patients that are allergic to it

Use with caution in patients:

•That are constipated

•With kidney disease

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give on an empty stomach.

•Do not give other medications or supplements at the same time as sucralfate. After giving any other medication or supplement, wait at least 2 hours before giving sucralfate.

•Crushing tablets and dissolving them in a small amount of water to make a slurry just before administration is recommended to help the medication work better. Your veterinarian can show you how to do this.

•Shake liquids well before each dose.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Constipation

•Vomiting

How will I know it's working?

•This medication will begin working within 1 to 2 hours.

•If using to prevent stomach irritation or ulcers, you will not be able to see the effects of this medication.

•If using to treat ulcers, you should see an improvement in your animal’s signs as the medication begins working.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 12 to 24 hours of the last dose.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.