Sucralfate Overview and Guidelines

Questions and Answers

How does sucralfate work to promote ulcer healing?

It promotes healing by adhering to the ulcer surface. It forms a viscous substance that covers the ulcer and protects it from acid and pepsin.

What is the dosage of sucralfate (Carafate)?

1 gram, usually four times a day before meals and at bedtime.

When should antacids be given when taking sucralfate (Carafate)?

Either 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after administration of sucralfate.

How should you store sucralfate (Carafate) and why?

It should be stored in an airtight seal so it can remain stable for up to 2 years. Signup and view all the answers

What is the drug class of Sucralfate?

Antiulcer: pepsin inhibitor. Signup and view all the answers

What are the contraindications of sucralfate (Carafate)?

Hypersensitivity and caution in renal/kidney failure. Signup and view all the answers

With which drugs are the effects of sucralfate (Carafate) decreased?

Tetracycline, phenytoin, fat-soluble vitamins, digoxin, antacids. Signup and view all the answers

Which drugs alter the absorption of sucralfate (Carafate)?

Ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin. Signup and view all the answers

What are the therapeutic effects/uses of sucralfate (Carafate)?

To prevent gastric mucosal injury from drug-induced ulcers (aspirin, NSAIDs); to manage ulcers. Signup and view all the answers

What are the side effects of sucralfate (Carafate)?

Dizziness, headache, nausea, flatulence, constipation, dry mouth, rash, pruritus, sleepiness. Signup and view all the answers

What are the adverse reactions of sucralfate (Carafate)?

Hyperglycemia, hypomagnesemia. Signup and view all the answers

While taking sucralfate (Carafate), which lab results should you report?

Urine output. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sucralfate (Carafate) Overview

Sucralfate promotes ulcer healing by adhering to the ulcer surface, forming a protective viscous substance against acid and pepsin.
It is classified as an antiulcer medication and is a pepsin inhibitor, available under trade names such as Carafate and Apo-Sucralfate.

Dosage

Standard dosage is 1 gram taken four times daily, ideally before meals and at bedtime.

Administration Guidelines

Antacids should be administered either 30 minutes before or after taking sucralfate to avoid interaction.
Store sucralfate in an airtight container to maintain stability for up to two years.

Contraindications and Cautions

Hypersensitivity to the drug is a contraindication.
Caution is advised for patients with renal or kidney failure.

Drug Interactions

The effects of sucralfate can be decreased when taken with tetracycline, phenytoin, fat-soluble vitamins, digoxin, and antacids.
Drugs that alter absorption of sucralfate include ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin.

Therapeutic Uses

Sucralfate is indicated for preventing gastric mucosal injury caused by drug-induced ulcers (e.g., from aspirin or NSAIDs) and for managing existing ulcers.

Side Effects

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, flatulence, constipation, dry mouth, rash, pruritus, and sleepiness.

Adverse Reactions

Potential adverse reactions include hyperglycemia and hypomagnesemia.

Monitoring

It is important to monitor and report urine output while taking sucralfate.

Description

This quiz covers the essential information on sucralfate, including its mechanism of action, dosage, administration guidelines, contraindications, and potential drug interactions. Test your understanding of how sucralfate promotes ulcer healing and the precautions necessary for its use.