Sucralfate is used to treat ulcers. It adheres to damaged ulcer tissue and protects against acid and enzymes so healing can occur.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Sucralfate comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken four times a day, 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Take sucralfate on an empty stomach, 2 hours after or 1 hour before meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sucralfate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake liquid sucralfate well before measuring doses.

This medicine must be taken regularly to be effective. It may take up to 8 weeks for ulcers to heal.

Although side effects from sucralfate are not common, they can occur. To avoid constipation, abdominal pain, and gas, eat a high-fiber diet (extra fruits, vegetables, salads, and bran) and drink plenty of fluids.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

passing red or black stools
coughing up or vomiting material that is bright red or looks like coffee grounds

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Sucralfate comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken four times a day, 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Take sucralfate on an empty stomach, 2 hours after or 1 hour before meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take sucralfate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake liquid sucralfate well before measuring doses.

Sucralfate is also used to protect the stomach lining when taking aspirin and for mouth sores that occur with cancer chemotherapy. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition. What special precautions should I follow

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

IT MAY TAKE 4 TO 8 WEEKS for complete healing of your ulcer. Continue taking this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better. IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE or if they become worse, check with your doctor. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.