Sucralfate

Uses & side effects

Used to manage gastric ulcers

Product-specific side effects await source review.

Drug interactions

Sucralfate is a highly effective, prescription gastrointestinal protectant used primarily to treat and prevent gastric and hindgut ulcers in horses. Unlike other ulcer medications that shut down acid production, sucralfate acts locally as a "band-aid," reacting with stomach acid to form a thick, sticky gel that physically binds to proteinaceous exudates on ulcer craters. This protective barrier shields the raw tissue from further damage caused by stomach acid, bile, and pepsin, drastically reducing pain and accelerating the healing process.Because it operates locally rather than systemically, it does not alter the natural pH or digestive environment of the stomach. It is often prescribed by veterinarians as part of a "gold standard" combination therapy alongside omeprazole to address multifaceted equine ulcer cases.Key Clinical Uses in HorsesGlandular Gastric Ulcers (EGGUD): Extremely effective for lesions in the lower, glandular region of the stomach where acid-suppressors alone sometimes struggle.Hindgut Ulcers & Right Dorsal Colitis: Extends protection to the colon and hindgut, a region where proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole have no clinical effect.NSAID Toxicity Prevention: Prescribed preventatively for horses or foals undergoing long-term or high-dose treatments with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Banish or Bute.Oral and Esophageal Ulceration: Coats and soothes lesions in the upper GI tract, frequently seen in compromised foals.Administration and Timing RulesProper timing is the most critical factor when using sucralfate, as it can readily bind to and block the absorption of nutrients, supplements, and other medications.Dosage: Typically dosed at 10 to 20 mg/kg orally every 6 to 8 hours for gastric ulcers, and up to 22 mg/kg for hindgut issues.Frequency: Must be given 3 to 4 times per day, as the protective gel coating only lasts for approximately 6 to 8 hours.The "Empty Stomach" Rule: For best results, administer sucralfate on an empty stomach (or before a morning meal) when stomach acid triggers the ideal gel formation.The 2-Hour Drug Separation: You must wait a minimum of 30 minutes—though 2 hours is highly recommended—between administering sucralfate and giving any other oral medications (like omeprazole) or grain feeds.Available FormulationsSucralfate comes in several preparations to suit different management styles:Compounded Oral Powders: Often apple-flavored for palatability, such as Sucralfate Oral Powder via Valley Vet Supply, which mixes easily.Oral Suspensions: Liquid forms are highly favored by vets for thorough, immediate coating action.Human-Grade/Generic 1g Tablets: Accessible and affordable options (like those from PetSupplies4Less). Tablets should be dissolved in lukewarm water into a slurry right before syringing into the horse's mouth.Side Effects and CautionsConstipation: Because it slows transit times, monitor manure output closely.Drug Interaction Risk: Neutralizes the absorption of concurrent medications if given simultaneously.Food Animal Restriction: Do not administer to horses intended for human consumption.

Contraindications