Sucralfate for Stomach Ulcers — What We Posted in Nov 2023

In November 2023 we published a straightforward review of sucralfate for stomach ulcers. If you're weighing options for ulcer care, the post explains how sucralfate works, where it helps the most, the common downsides, and simple things you can do right away to use it safely.

How sucralfate works and when it helps

Sucralfate is not like antacids or acid blockers. It sticks to the ulcer site and forms a protective layer over the damaged tissue. That physical barrier helps reduce further irritation from acid and enzymes, so the ulcer can heal. Because it acts locally and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, it often causes fewer systemic effects than some oral drugs.

It's most useful for people who need local protection of the stomach or duodenum — for example, certain ulcers that aren't caused solely by excess acid or when other medicines aren't tolerated. Doctors sometimes choose sucralfate when they want a non-systemic option or to add protection around procedures that irritate the stomach lining.

Risks, interactions, and practical tips

Sucralfate's main downsides are easy to manage if you know them. Constipation is the most common side effect. People with kidney failure need extra caution because aluminum from the drug can build up. Sucralfate also binds to some medicines and lowers their absorption — think antibiotics like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, or drugs like digoxin and phenytoin.

Here are simple, practical rules if you're prescribed sucralfate: take it on an empty stomach (often before meals and at bedtime), and separate other oral medicines by about two hours. If you have reduced kidney function, tell your provider — they may choose a different option. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, mention it; sucralfate is minimally absorbed but your clinician will decide what's best for you.

Compared with modern acid-suppressing drugs (like proton pump inhibitors), sucralfate may be less convenient because of the dosing schedule and drug interactions. But it still has a role: it works locally, can be gentle on the rest of the body, and helps ulcers heal when used correctly.

If you read the November post, you got a balanced look: clear benefits for specific situations, plus clear warnings where it doesn't fit. The bottom line: sucralfate is a useful tool, not a one-size-fits-all answer. Talk with your healthcare provider about how it fits your situation, especially if you take other medications or have kidney disease.

Want the full breakdown? Check the November 2023 article for examples, common questions, and a checklist to bring to your next appointment.