Sucralfate is practically insoluble in water and ethanol, but 1g sucralfate tablets can be rapidly dispersed in about 10ml of water.
There are a number of reports that describe the preparation of sucralfate supensions in a base of glycerol or sorbitol and water.1,2,3 In general, these suspensions are not necessary as a slurry of sucralfate dispersed in water can be given to patients who are unable to swallow tablets. If necessary, a suitable flavouring agent or sweetener (eg syrup or glycerol) can be added after the tablet has dispersed.
A method has been suggested for nasogastric administration.1
- Remove the cap and plunger from a 60mL syringe and place the sucralfate tablet inside.
- Replace the plunger so that minimal airspace exists around the tablet and draw up about 20mL of
water into the syringe.
- Replace cap and allow the syringe to stand for about for 5 minutes, shaking occasionally.
- Shake the suspension and administer directly from the syringe into the tube.
NOTE
- It is important to flush the tubing before and after nasogastric administration of sucralfate to avoid any binding interactions with other drugs or feeds.
REFERENCES
- Schneider JS, Ouellette SM. Sucralfate administration via nasogastric tube. N Engl J Med 1984; 310 (15): 990.
- Kostka MD, Frisolone J, Rudnick E. Making decisons about drug repackaging. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1996; 53: 564-65.
- Ferraro JM. Sucralfate suspension for mouth ulcers. Drug Intell Clin Pharm 1985; 19: 480.
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