Sucralfate: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

If your doctor mentioned sucralfate, here’s the no-nonsense version you can use today. Sucralfate is a medicine that sticks to damaged stomach or esophagus lining and forms a protective barrier. It doesn’t neutralize acid like antacids — it shelters the sore spot so it can heal.

How sucralfate works and when it's used

It’s most often prescribed for active duodenal ulcers and for healing esophagitis (including acid-related injuries). Doctors also use it to protect the stomach lining after certain procedures or during radiation therapy when tissues are irritated. Because very little is absorbed into the blood, its effects are local — right where the lining is injured.

How to take sucralfate — practical dosing tips

Typical adult dosing is 1 gram four times a day (before meals and at bedtime) or 2 grams twice daily, depending on your prescription. Take it on an empty stomach — usually at least 1 hour before eating — so it can form that protective coating. If you’re using the liquid form, shake well and swallow the full dose.

Timing matters for other medicines. Sucralfate can bind certain drugs and cut their absorption. Wait at least 2 hours before or after taking sucralfate to take: fluoroquinolones (like ciprofloxacin), tetracyclines, levothyroxine, phenytoin, digoxin, or warfarin. Ask your pharmacist for exact timing if you’re on any prescription meds.

Antacids may reduce sucralfate’s stickiness. If you need an antacid, use it at a different time of day and tell your prescriber so they can adjust the plan.

Side effects and key precautions

Most people tolerate sucralfate well. The most common issue is constipation. You may also get dry mouth, gas, or stomach upset. Serious problems are rare, but sucralfate contains aluminum. If you have moderate to severe kidney disease, aluminum can build up — tell your doctor if your kidneys are not healthy.

If you notice worsening stomach pain, vomiting blood, black stools, or a severe allergic reaction (rash, trouble breathing), contact a doctor right away. For pregnant or breastfeeding people, sucralfate is usually considered low risk, but check with your provider.

Expect some healing in a few weeks for most ulcers, but follow your prescriber's timeline and finish the course. If symptoms don’t improve after a couple of weeks, or they come back after stopping treatment, get medical advice.

Quick checklist: take on empty stomach, space other meds by 2 hours, watch for constipation, and alert your provider if you have kidney problems. Got questions about your dose or interactions? Ask your pharmacist — they can give simple, tailored advice fast.