Sucralfate

Description

Sucralfate is a drug used in the management and prevention of equine gastric ulcers. Its effects are local rather than systemic and it does not affect production of gastric acid.

Usage

Since sucralfate provides a protective coating over injured mucosa, or lining of the stomach and small intestine in the horse, it is often prescribed by veterinarians to both prevent and treat gastrointestinal ulcers.

Sucralfate is most effective in treating ulcers affecting the glandular part of the stomach. Since ulcers in foals and adult horses often involve the non-glandular part of the stomach, or the squamous areas, a veterinarian's diagnosis is important. In cases involving the squamous type of mucosa or stomach/intestinal lining, sucralfate may be used in addition to other drugs, such as omeprazole or rantidine.

Dosage and Administration

Side Effects

In some cases, constipation may occur.

Precautions

Sucralfate is not FDA approved for use with horses, but is commonly used and an accepted practice. It is a prescription drug restricted by U. S. federal law to use by or on the lawful written or oral order of a licensed veterinarian.

Sucralfate is prohibited in any drug-free competition. It is important to check with the individual regulatory group.

Interactions

Sucralfate can decrease the absorption of many drugs and should not be given within two hours of most other oral medications. Administration at the same time as the H2 antagonists does not appear to interfere with either drug's activity.

Overdose

Difficulties due to overdose are very unlikely.