Sucrafil Tablet (Sucralfate) | Prilosec | Used to Treat and Prevent Duodenal Ulcers
Sucrafil Tablet (Sucralfate) is a gastroprotective medication used to treat and prevent stomach and duodenal ulcers. Unlike antacids, Sucralfate does not neutralise stomach acid but instead acts as a physical barrier to protect the damaged tissue. Sucrafil Tablets are also used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stress ulcers, and irritation of the oesophagus.
Product Overview
Sucrafil Tablet is a specialized gastrointestinal medication containing Sucralfate, a potent cytoprotective agent used to treat and prevent ulcers in the digestive tract. Unlike traditional antacids that simply neutralize stomach acid, this medication acts as a physical barrier, coating the lining of the stomach and duodenum to protect it from the corrosive effects of acid, pepsin, and bile salts. It is an essential clinical tool for managing peptic ulcer disease, providing a protective environment that allows damaged tissues to heal naturally.
Product Composition
Active Ingredient: Sucralfate (Typically available in 1000 mg / 1g strength)
Inactive Components: Includes magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and colloidal silicon dioxide
Product Specification
| Feature | Details |
| Drug Class | Cytoprotective Agent / Anti-ulcerant |
| Therapeutic Indications | Duodenal Ulcer, Gastritis, and GERD |
| Formulation | Oral Tablet |
| Site of Action | Localized to the gastrointestinal mucosa |
| Absorption | Minimally absorbed into the systemic circulation (less than 5%) |
| Chemical Structure | Aluminum hydroxide complex of sucrose sulfate |
Mechanism of Action
- The medication reacts with gastric acid to form a viscous, paste-like substance that carries a strong negative charge.
- It selectively binds to the positively charged proteins exposed in ulcer craters, creating a physical "bandage" over the wound.
- By forming this protective barrier, it prevents acid, digestive enzymes (pepsin), and bile from further irritating the injured mucosa.
- It stimulates the production of prostaglandins and bicarbonate, which enhance the natural defensive and regenerative properties of the stomach lining.
- The drug also adsorbs bile salts and inhibits pepsin activity, further reducing the aggressive factors that cause gastric erosion.
Key Benefits
- Targeted Ulcer Healing: Specifically focuses on damaged tissue, accelerating the recovery of both active duodenal ulcers and gastric sores.
- Superior Mucosal Protection: Provides a robust defense against "acid attacks" without significantly altering the natural pH of the stomach.
- Rapid Symptom Relief: Helps alleviate the burning pain and discomfort associated with gastritis and acid reflux.
- Prevention of Recurrence: Effective as a maintenance therapy to prevent the return of ulcers in high-risk patients.
- Low Systemic Side Effects: Because it remains mostly in the digestive tract and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, it has a very high safety profile with minimal systemic interactions.
Precautions
| Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Kidney Disease | Use carefully in patients with kidney problems. |
| Constipation | May worsen constipation in some people. |
| Other Medicines | Can reduce absorption of other medicines. |
| Timing with Food | Usually taken on an empty stomach for best effect. |
| Pregnancy | Use only if advised by a healthcare professional. |
| Breastfeeding | Consult a healthcare professional before use. |
| Long-term Use | Prolonged use should be monitored. |
Important Points
- Take exactly as directed.
- Keep a gap between Sucrafil and other medicines.
- Inform about all medicines being used.
- Report persistent constipation or discomfort.
Usage
Dosage and administration for this medication are designed to ensure the protective paste forms before the stomach is filled with food. For optimal results, Sucrafil Tablet must be taken on an empty stomach, typically one hour before meals and at bedtime.
| Aspect | Recommendation |
| Active Ulcer Dose | Usually 1 gram (one tablet) taken four times daily |
| Maintenance Dose | Typically 1 gram taken twice daily to prevent recurrence |
| Timing | Administer 1 hour before breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and at bedtime |
| Administration | Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew |
| Drug Interactions | Take other medications at least 2 hours before or after to avoid absorption issues |
| Duration | Continue the full course for 4–8 weeks, even if symptoms improve quickly |
Uses
Duodenal Ulcer Treatment: Primary use is for the short-term healing of active duodenal ulcers by shielding the site from gastric acid.
Maintenance Therapy: Used at lower dosages to prevent the recurrence of ulcers after the initial healing phase is complete.
Gastritis Management: Effectively treats inflammation of the stomach lining, reducing pain and preventing further gastric erosion.
GERD Relief: Provides a protective coating for the esophagus in cases of severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, shielding tissue from acid splashback.
Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis: Administered to critically ill patients to prevent the formation of ulcers caused by physiological stress.
Bile Reflux Protection: Helps neutralize the irritating effects of bile salts that may back up into the stomach or esophagus.
FAQs
Q: What is Sucrafil Tablet used for?
A: Sucrafil (Sucralfate) is used to treat and prevent stomach and duodenal ulcers. It is also used to manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stress ulcers, and irritation of the oesophagus.
Q: How does Sucralfate work?
A: Sucralfate forms a thick, protective coating over the ulcer site in the stomach and intestinal lining, shielding it from the damaging effects of stomach acid, pepsin, and bile salts. This allows the ulcer to heal naturally without neutralising stomach acid.
Q: How should I take Sucrafil Tablet?
A: Sucrafil should be taken on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor for maximum effectiveness.
Q: What is the usual dose of Sucrafil Tablet?
A: The typical dose for active ulcers is 1g four times daily, taken before meals and at bedtime. For maintenance and prevention of ulcer recurrence, the dose is usually 1g twice daily. Your doctor will prescribe the most appropriate dose for your condition.
Q: How long does it take for Sucrafil Tablet to work?
A: Sucrafil begins to form a protective coating over the ulcer shortly after each dose. Most patients experience relief from symptoms within a few days, however the full course of treatment should be completed as prescribed even if symptoms improve.
Q: What are the common side effects of Sucrafil Tablet?
A: Sucrafil is generally well tolerated. The most common side effect is constipation. Other side effects may include dry mouth, nausea, stomach upset, dizziness, and headache. Contact your doctor if any side effects become severe or persistent.
Q: Can Sucrafil Tablet be taken with other medications?
A: Sucralfate may interfere with the absorption of certain medications including antacids, antibiotics, digoxin, phenytoin, and warfarin. It is advisable to take other medications at least 2 hours before or after taking Sucrafil.
Q: Can I take antacids while taking Sucrafil Tablet?
A: Antacids should not be taken within 30 minutes before or after taking Sucrafil as they may interfere with its effectiveness. If antacids are required, consult your doctor for advice on timing.
Q: Who should not take Sucrafil Tablet?
A: Sucrafil should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems as it contains aluminium which may accumulate in the body. It should also be used carefully in patients with difficulty swallowing. Always inform your doctor of your full medical history before starting treatment.
Q: Can Sucrafil Tablet be taken during pregnancy?
A: Sucrafil should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Q: How long do I need to take Sucrafil Tablet?
A: The duration of treatment depends on the condition being treated. For active ulcers, treatment typically lasts 4 to 8 weeks. For prevention of ulcer recurrence, longer term use may be recommended. Always complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor.
Interactions
| Drug / Group | Effect with Sucrafil Tablet (Sucralfate) |
|---|---|
| Antacids | May reduce effectiveness if taken together. |
| Antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones) | May reduce absorption and effectiveness. |
| Thyroid medicines (levothyroxine) | May decrease absorption. |
| Iron supplements | May reduce iron absorption. |
| Digoxin | May lower absorption and effectiveness. |
| Warfarin | May reduce or delay effect in some cases. |
Important Points
- Maintain a time gap between Sucrafil and other medicines (usually 2 hours or more).
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking.
- Avoid self-adjusting doses without guidance.
- Monitor if other medicines become less effective.
| Manufacturer | : | Fourrts India Laboratories Pvt Ltd |
| Trade Name | : | Carafate |
| Generic Search | : | Sucralfate |
| Strength | : | 1g |
Latest Products
