CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julien Bazelle,
Medication: Sucralfate
Your cat has been prescribed sucralfate for the treatment or prevention of esophageal, stomach and/or duodenal inflammation and/or ulcers.
ℹ️Key points: • This medication is often prescribed in conjunction with an H2 antagonist such as ranitidine, cimetidine or famotidine or a proton pump inhibitor such as omeprazole. Sucralfate should be given at least 2 hrs apart from these, or any other oral medications. • There are no licensed veterinary products containing sucralfate. Your veterinarian will explain the law relating to prescribing human drugs for use in animals. • Dosage: as prescribed by your veterinarian, often three to four times daily.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Sucralfate (soo-cral-fayt).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing sucralfate.
Class of medication
- Mucosal protectant and ulcer-healing agent.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my cat been prescribed sucralfate?
Your veterinarian has prescribed sucralfate for the treatment or prevention of esophageal, stomach and/or duodenal ulceration. Sucralfate has a coating action on the damaged digestive wall and may improve healing.
How is the medication given?
Sucralfate is given orally (as tablets or as a liquid). It is usually administered three to four times per day. Your veterinarian will advise as to dosing. Sucralfate is best administered on an empty stomach, at least 1 hr before feeding.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects are unusual, but both diarrhea and vomiting have been reported in humans treated with sucralfate. Constipation may occur. Sucralfate should be used in caution in patients with advanced kidney disease. It may worsen the kidney disease in cats, possibly due to dehydration. The following drugs may interact with sucralfate: H2 antagonists (see above), absorption of antacids, phenytoin, tetracycline, digoxin and fluoroquinolone antibiotics may be affected by sucralfate. Speak to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Sucralfate should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Length of treatment will vary between patients.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused sucralfate safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save sucralfate for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period. One extra dose is unlikely to cause any problems for your pet but contact your vet for advice if you accidentally overdose with sucralfate.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Sucralfate should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on sucralfate?
Your pet may need regular veterinary check-ups whilst on this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on sucralfate can be found on the package insert.Europe & UK
- There are no veterinary products containing sucralfate licensed for use in dogs or cats in the UK or Europe.
USA
- There are no veterinary products containing sucralfate licensed for use in dogs or cats in the US.