Sucralfate

What is Sucralfate?

Sucralfate is a prescription medication used in dogs, cats, and horses to treat ulcers. Although Sucralfate is not FDA-approved for use in veterinary medicine, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for dogs, cats, and horses. Sucralfate requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per tablet.

For:

Dogs, Cats, and Horses

Benefits:

• Coats and protects ulcers against further damage from acids and enzymes
• May help prevent ulcers from forming, which can happen when a pet is given aspirin or NSAIDs

How it Works:

Sucralfate works to prevent and treat ulcers that form in the mouth, throat, esophagus, and intestines. Sucralfate works with the acids in the stomach to form a paste over the ulcers and prevent further damage.

Cautions:

Use Sucralfate with caution in pregnant or nursing animals.

Brand Name:

Carafate

Generic Name:

sucralfate

What is the most important information I should know about sucralfate:

Sucralfate is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs, cats, and horses. Sucralfate is available as 1 Gm tablets. The usual dose for dogs is 1/2 to 1 tablet by mouth 3 times a day. For cats, the usual dose is 1/4 to 1/2 tablet by mouth every 8 to 12 hours. For horses, the usual dose is 4.5 mg to 9 mg per pound 4 times a day.

What is Sucralfate:

Sucralfate is used to treat ulcer by coating the ulcer protecting it from further damage. It is used to treat ulcers of the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine r to prevent ulcers in those animals being givens aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Sucralfate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving sucralfate to my pet:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is constipated or has megacolon. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or nursing.

How should this medication be given:

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Sucralfate should be given on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after, a meal. Unless directed otherwise, crush the tablet for better absorption. Store sucralfate at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the pet:

Signs of overdose are rare but may include constipation. If overdose is suspected, contact your veterinarian.

What should I avoid while giving Sucralfate to my pet:

Sucralfate should not be used in animals allergic to it. Use sucralfate with caution in pregnant, or nursing females.

What are the possible side effects of Sucralfate:

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving sucralfate and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Sucralfate may cause constipation. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

What other drugs will affect Sucralfate:

Sucralfate may affect the absorption of many other medications. Do not give any medications within 2 hours of giving Sucralfate. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with sucralfate. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, and supplements.

Where can I get more information:

Your pharmacist has additional information about Sucralfate written for health professionals that you may read.

Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.