Mucosal protectants: What They Do, Medicines
Mucosal protectants are medicines that coat or shield the lining of the stomach and gut. They are used in some people with ulcers. They act mainly on the surface of the ulcer, not in the blood. Sucralfate is an example.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Mucosal protectants work?
Sucralfate forms a sticky layer over an ulcer. This layer protects the sore spot from stomach acid, pepsin and bile salts, giving the lining a chance to heal. It acts locally, with very little absorbed into the body.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Mucosal protectants. They are listed A to Z.
- Sucralfate: Sucralfate is a prescription medicine that coats an ulcer to protect it from stomach acid while it heals.
Common questions
Do mucosal protectants lower stomach acid?
No. They coat the ulcer instead. Medicines such as proton pump inhibitors lower acid. A doctor decides which medicine suits you.
Why must they be spaced from other medicines?
Sucralfate can reduce how much of some other medicines the body absorbs. Doctors and pharmacists advise a gap, often about 2 hours. Ask about the timing for each medicine you take.
Do they treat the cause of an ulcer?
Not on their own. Ulcers are mainly caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria and by regular NSAID painkillers. A doctor looks for the cause as well.
Sources
- Carafate (sucralfate) tablets: prescribing information. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- Stomach ulcer. NHS (UK)