Sucralfate Dosage: Quick Guide for Ulcer Relief

Sucralfate is a medicine that coats stomach ulcers and protects them while they heal. Getting the dose right matters – too little won’t work, too much can cause stomach upset. Below you’ll find the most common dosing schedules, how to take it, and what to watch out for.

Standard Adult Dosage

For most adults with duodenal ulcers, the usual dose is 1 gram (four 250 mg tablets) taken four times a day. That means you’ll take a dose about every six hours, even if you’re sleeping. If you’re treating gastric ulcers, doctors often recommend 1 g three times a day. Always swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water – don’t crush or chew them because the coating needs to stay intact.

If you’re using the liquid form, the dose is typically 1 g (about 2 ml of the 200 mg/ml suspension) per dose, again four times daily. Measure the liquid carefully with a dosing syringe or cup – kitchen spoons are not accurate enough.

Take sucralfate on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals or two hours after eating. Food can lower the drug’s ability to stick to the ulcer, making it less effective.

Special Situations & Safety Tips

Kids need a lower dose based on weight. The usual recommendation is 1 g per square meter of body surface area per day, divided into four doses. Your pediatrician will calculate the exact amount for your child, so follow their instructions exactly.

If you have kidney problems, your doctor may lower the dose because sucralfate is cleared through the kidneys. Do not change the dose on your own – ask your doctor for a specific plan.

Common side effects include constipation and a chalky taste. Drinking plenty of water and eating fiber‑rich foods can help keep things moving. If you notice severe stomach cramps, nausea, or blood in your stool, call a doctor right away.

Sucralfate can bind to other medicines and reduce their absorption. Give other oral meds at least two hours after taking sucralfate. This includes antibiotics, thyroid pills, and iron supplements.

Missing a dose? Just take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule – don’t double up.

Finally, keep track of your treatment length. Most ulcer courses last 4–8 weeks, but your doctor may adjust the time based on healing progress. Follow up appointments help ensure the ulcer is gone and you don’t need to stay on the drug longer than necessary.

With the right sucralfate dosage and a few simple habits, you’ll give your ulcer the best chance to heal fast and stay healed.