- Indications
- Mechanism
- Sucralfate is a sucrose sulfate-aluminum complex that binds to mucosal proteins at ulcerated sites, forming a protective barrier against bile, acid, and irritants
- It also stimulates local prostaglandin production and epithelial repair
- Preparation
- Typically 2 grams of sucralfate is crushed and mixed with 20–30 mL of water or saline to form a slurry suitable for rectal administration
- Administration
- Patient positioned in left lateral or knee-chest position
- The slurry is instilled gently into the rectum via a catheter or enema syringe
- The patient is encouraged to retain the enema for at least 20–30 minutes, ideally longer if tolerated
- Frequency
- Usually administered once or twice daily depending on severity
- Side Effects
- Very minimal systemic absorption, so side effects are rare
- Potential for aluminum absorption in patients with renal impairment