Sucralfate in dogs is a drug with a protective effect and, to a lesser extent, an antacid used to treat or combat injuries in the gastrointestinal system. Therefore, it is a medicine that should always be administered following the recommendations of the veterinarian.
In this article on our site we are going to detail how sucralfate works, as well as the pathologies for which its use is recommended. On the other hand, we will explain what its contraindications and possible adverse side effects are. So, if your veterinarian has told you that you should administer this drug to your dog, read on to find out all about sucralfate for dogs
What is sucralfate for dogs?
Sucralfate is a drug that acts as a protector of the cells of the gastrointestinal mucosa Its action occurs because the stomach acid dissociates into two products called sucrose octasulfate and aluminum hydroxide. Sucrose octasulfate in the acid medium binds to the damaged mucosa and provides it with a protective effect by constituting a kind of gel with a viscous and sticky consistency that is capable of resisting more than six hours. For its part, aluminum hydroxide has a slight local antacid effect. In addition, the drug absorbs bile acids and increases mucus secretion, among other actions.
Sucralfate acts where it is needed and, in other words, we could say that it forms a protective film on the lesion, so that it is protected from the acid secretions of the gastrointestinal tract, which cause irritation in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
Sucralfate in dogs can be purchased as an oral suspension, always with a prescription. A small amount of the administered dose is absorbed, about 3 to 5%, and eliminated via the kidneys within 48 hours after administration. It is also available in tablets, so that we can choose the presentation that is easiest for us to administer according to the preferences of our dog.
What is sucralfate good for in dogs?
Indications for this drug include gastritis, reflux esophagitis, stomach lesions produced during surgery, certain tumors in the digestive system,duodenitis or inflammation of the first portion of the small intestine or ulcers of any origin, also those that are produced in the mucosa of the mouth. Ulcers in dogs are relatively common, since all those animals that are administered steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for a long time are very sensitive to their formation. For this reason, in these cases it is not only used for treatment, but the veterinarian can prescribe it as a preventive measure to prevent these injuries from occurring.
It can also be used for dogs suffering from chronic kidney or liver diseases, since they are pathologies that include ulcerations at the gastrointestinal level among their symptoms. Depending on the circumstances of each case, the veterinarian will assess the joint administration of other drugs.
Dog Sucralfate Dosage
The dose of sucralfate in dogs will depend on their weight and the presentation that the veterinarian has prescribed. As an example, 5 ml of sucralfate three times a day are usually prescribed for the oral suspension for dogs weighing up to 15 kg. In any case, depending on each particular case, the veterinarian may opt for a higher or lower dose. That is why it is important that we never medicate the dog on our own.
The usual treatment lasts on average about eight days, although, depending on the clinical picture, and always following the recommendations of the veterinarian, it may range from two days to two weeks. It is recommended to administer it on an empty stomach.
Contraindications of sucralfate in dogs
Sucralfate is not a safe medication for pregnant bitches Of course, it cannot be administered to dogs with sensitivity to this drug. It should also be given with caution to dogs that, for whatever reason, have reduced intestinal motility, such as very old dogs. In other dogs, it is rare for adverse side effects to occur, as long as we follow the guidelines indicated by the veterinarian. Nursing bitches can consume it.
Sucralfate Side Effects in Dogs
constipation can be mentioned as a negative effect after its administration. In this case, treatment should be discontinued. In a very small percentage of cases symptoms may appear as follows:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach ache
- Indigestion
- Gases
- Dry mouth
- Itching
- Drowsiness
If the dog is receiving other medications, we must inform the veterinarian, as they may interact with sucralfate and reduce its effectiveness. In that case, the professional will tell us at what interval to administer both drugs so that no interference occurs. Finally, dogs with very advanced chronic kidney disease, although not very common, could become intoxicated with aluminum.
