Sucralfate for Dogs: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
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PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.
Key Takeaways
- Sucralfate is used in dogs to protect the lining of the digestive tract and help treat ulcers.
- Sucralfate is FDA-approved for humans and prescribed extra-label in dogs when a veterinarian determines it’s appropriate.
- Sucralfate forms a protective barrier—like a bandage—over ulcers, allowing damaged tissue to heal.
- It’s typically given on an empty stomach every six to 12 hours, with careful timing around other medications.
What Is Sucralfate Used for in Dogs?
Sucralfate is a prescription medication used in dogs to protect the lining of the digestive tract, specifically the esophagus, stomach, and the upper small intestines. It’s available in tablet or liquid form and is effective in preventing ulcers and treating existing ulcers.
Is Sucralfate FDA-Approved for Dogs?
Sucralfate is currently not FDA-approved for use in dogs. It is, however, FDA-approved for human use under the brand name Carafate and as generic sucralfate.
Sucralfate is readily utilized in the veterinary field, and veterinarians can legally prescribe certain human drugs for use in animals in certain circumstances. This is called extra-label or off-label use because this use is not described on the drug label.
Speak with your veterinarian about whether sucralfate is right for your dog.
Compounded Sucralfate for Dogs
In certain circumstances, your vet may recommend a compounded formulation of sucralfate.
Compounded medications are prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug, such as if your pet has trouble taking pills in capsule form, the dosage strength is not commercially available, or the pet is allergic to an ingredient in the FDA-approved medication.
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They’re created by either a veterinarian or a licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to best suit a patient’s particular needs.
How Does Sucralfate Work in Dogs?
Sucralfate combines with stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) to form a paste-like coating that binds to the lining of the gastrointestinal system, acting as a bandage.
It also creates a protective barrier over ulcerations in the stomach, duodenum, and esophagus.
How To Give Sucralfate to Dogs
Follow the directions on the drug label or as provided by your veterinarian.
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Sucralfate is typically given by mouth two to four times a day, depending on the condition being treated.
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Sucralfate should be given on an empty stomach and at least two hours after other medications have been administered.
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When using the tablets, crush and then dissolve the tablets in a small amount of water before administering the slurry by mouth.
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Shake liquid preparations before administration.
What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Sucralfate?
Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of sucralfate.
Generally, your vet may instruct you to give it when you remember, or if it’s almost time for your dog’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule.
Do not give extra or double doses.
What Are the Side Effects of Sucralfate in Dogs?
Sucralfate for dogs side effects include:
Sucralfate is typically well-tolerated, and these side effects are generally rare and mild.
Human Side Effects
Due to possible side effects, humans should never use medicine dispensed for their pets and pets should not be given any medicine dispensed for a human’s use. Sucralfate frequently has dosages different from those prescribed for your pet by a veterinarian.
If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, seek medical attention in person or call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.
Monitoring Your Pet
No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on you dog’s individual needs, other medications that may be prescribed, and/or the issue that initially caused your dog to be placed on this medication.
When To Call Your Vet
Call your veterinarian if you see any of the following or if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of sucralfate:
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Severe side effects (above)
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Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment
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You see or suspect an overdose
What Happens if a Dog Overdoses on Sucralfate?
Possible signs of overdose may include:
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Vomiting
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Constipation
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Drooling
Overdoses of sucralfate are extremely rare and even large amounts of this medication are generally well-tolerated.
If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.
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Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661
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ASPCA Animal Poison Control 888-426-4435
How To Store Sucralfate for Dogs
Keep the following storage tips in mind for this medication:
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Store sucralfate tablets and liquids at controlled room temperatures between 68–77 F (20–25 C).
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Do not freeze the medication and always confirm storage temperatures by reading the label.
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Keep the container tightly closed to protect it from moisture and light.
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Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Sucralfate for Dogs FAQs
Can I give my pet sucralfate on an empty stomach?
Yes, sucralfate works best on an empty stomach and is generally given with water at least two hours after other medications have been administered.
Do dogs have to eat after taking sucralfate?
No, dogs should wait to eat at least two hours after taking sucralfate to allow it to work best on an empty stomach.
Can sucralfate be given with other medications?
No, avoid giving sucralfate at the same time as other medications. Sucralfate can bind to other medications, which affects their absorption in the body. Sucralfate should be separated from other medications by at least two hours.
How long does sucralfate take to work in dogs?
Sucralfate begins working within one to two hours by coating and protecting the gastrointestinal lining. However, visible improvement in clinical signs may take several days, depending on the severity of the underlying condition.
How long can dogs safely take sucralfate?
In general, dogs can safely take sucralfate for as long as their veterinarian deems it necessary for their current condition.
No vet writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of the medication as part of creating this article. All content contained in this article is sourced from public sources or the manufacturer.
