One of the medications used to treat peptic ulcers and duodenal ulcers is Sucrate Gel. So, what is Sucrate Gel used for, and how should it be utilized in the treatment of peptic ulcers and duodenal ulcers?
1. What is Sucrate Gel Used For?
Sucrate Gel contains the active ingredient sucralfate at a dosage of 1g. The medicinal use of Sucrate Gel includes treating gastric and duodenal ulcers, acute and chronic gastritis, and esophageal ulcers. Additionally, this medication has been shown to prevent gastric ulcers, stress-induced ulcers, and to support the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Each 5ml sachet of Sucrate Gel contains 1g of sucralfate in oral suspension form. The packaging is typically a box containing 30 sachets of Sucrate Gel.
Sucrate Gel is a physical form of sucralfate and was originally patented by Lisapharma, Italy. Its surface area is twice as large as that of regular sucralfate powder, and research data shows that it adheres tightly to the gastric mucosa. Thanks to this property, Sucrate Gel is highly effective in anti-ulcer capabilities. Mechanistically, sucralfate coats the surface of ulcers by forming a complex with proteins (such as albumin and fibrinogen) present in the damaged mucosal area. This complex acts as a protective barrier, preventing the attack of acid, digestive enzymes, and bile salts. Additionally, Sucrate Gel stimulates the increased production of prostaglandin E2 and gastric mucus.
Regarding pharmacokinetics, only a very small amount of Sucrate Gel is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration and is excreted via the urinary system.
2. Dosage of Sucrate Gel
The usual dosage of Sucrate Gel is one sachet twice daily. Sucrate Gel should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before breakfast and before bedtime. Treatment should continue until the ulcer is fully healed (as confirmed by gastroscopy). The average treatment duration is 4 to 8 weeks.
For maintenance therapy, the daily dosage of Sucrate Gel is reduced by half (only one sachet per day in the evening). The medication can be taken with a sip of water or another drink.
Note: The above dosage is for reference only, as the precise dosage depends on various factors, including the patient’s condition and disease progression. Patients should consult their doctor or a healthcare professional for an appropriate dosage.
Additional notes on Sucrate Gel dosage:
- In cases of overdose, patients should immediately contact emergency medical services or go to the nearest medical facility.
- If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for the next Sucrate gel dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as scheduled. Do not double the dose to compensate for the missed dose.
3. Contraindications of Sucrate Gel
- Sucrate Gel is contraindicated for individuals with known allergies or hypersensitivity to the components of the medication.
- Sucrate Gel contains aspartame and should not be used by individuals with phenylketonuria.
- Children under 12 years old.
- During treatment, Sucrate Gel should not be used concurrently with tetracycline antibiotics, as complex salt formation will reduce the efficacy of the antibiotic.
- Sucrate Gel may reduce the bioavailability of many other medications. Therefore, patients should take Sucrate Gel at least 2 hours apart from other medications.
4. Side Effects of Sucrate Gel
Prolonged use of Sucrate Gel may lead to some adverse drug reactions (ADRs) with an unspecified frequency, including:
- Gastrointestinal disorders, such as constipation and dry mouth.
- Nervous system abnormalities, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and insomnia.
- Dermatological side effects, including itching, rash, or redness.
If side effects occur, patients should immediately stop using the medication and inform their doctor or visit the nearest medical facility for timely intervention.
During use, patients with a history of kidney disease should be cautious when using Sucrate Gel for an extended period. Pregnant women should also consider its use carefully and only use Sucrate Gel when absolutely necessary.
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