Sucralfate

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Sucralfate (brand name Carafate) — Antiulcer (mucosal protectant); Sulfated sucrose-aluminum complex.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antiulcer (mucosal protectant).
• Pharmacologic class: Sulfated sucrose-aluminum complex.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Forms a protective barrier over ulcer sites; minimal systemic absorption.
• Onset / peak / duration: Local action; duration up to 6 hours.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Minimal absorption; no level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Duodenal ulcer, stress ulcer, mucosal protection.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: 1 g PO four times daily on an empty stomach.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Caution in renal impairment (aluminum accumulation).

Safety

• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity; caution in chronic kidney disease.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Binds many drugs and reduces absorption (fluoroquinolones, digoxin, levothyroxine, phenytoin); separate by 2 hours.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Considered low risk when needed.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Constipation, dry mouth.
• Serious effects to report: Bezoar formation, aluminum toxicity in renal failure.
• Antidote / reversal: Not applicable.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Renal function, timing of other oral drugs.
• Interventions during therapy: Give 1 hour before meals and at bedtime; separate other medications by 2 hours.
• Monitor: Ulcer symptoms, bowel pattern.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Ulcer healing.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Take on an empty stomach; space other medicines apart.
• Notify provider if: Severe constipation, no symptom improvement.
• Administration tips: Empty stomach; separate other oral drugs by 2 hours.