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Peds Calc

Pediatric Reference

Sucralfate Side EffectsComprehensive Pediatric Safety Guide

Sucralfate is well tolerated; most adverse effects relate to GI motility and aluminum exposure.

3 Categories
4 Clinical Sources
Evidence-Based
Back to Sucralfate Overview

Essential Information

1

Encourage fluids and fiber to prevent constipation.

2

Monitor renal function for long-term therapy.

3

Separate from other medications to avoid reduced absorption.

Clinical Overview

Constipation is most common. Rarely, bezoar formation or hypophosphatemia can occur.

Side Effect Categories

3 Systems

Gastrointestinal

2 documented effects

Total Sources: 2

Constipation

Incidence: Common
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Increase fluids and fiber; consider stool softener.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Dry mouth

Incidence: Uncommon
Onset: Not specified
mild
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Offer water or sugar-free lozenges.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Metabolic

1 documented effect

Total Sources: 1

Aluminum accumulation/hypophosphatemia

Incidence: Rare
Onset: Not specified
serious
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Avoid long-term use in renal failure; monitor labs if therapy prolonged.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Dermatologic

1 documented effect

Total Sources: 1

Rash

Incidence: Rare
Onset: Not specified
moderate
1 sources
Duration

Not specified

Management

Discontinue and evaluate for allergy.

Monitoring Guidelines

Monitor for symptom escalation or new adverse effects.

1 clinical sources• PubMed • Clinical Guidelines • FDA

Parent Communication Guide

Age-Appropriate Explanations

Infants (0-12 months)

For babies taking Sucralfate, watch for signs of side effects. This medication is generally well-tolerated in infants when used as directed.

Toddlers (1-3 years)

If your toddler is taking Sucralfate, they might feel different. This is usually temporary and normal.

Children (4-12 years)

This medicine coats your stomach. Drink water after doses and tell us if you feel backed up.

Adolescents (13+ years)

Take it before meals and space other meds by 2 hours.

Common Parent Concerns

Q: Constipation

A: Encourage fluids, fiber, and walking if able.

When to validate: Call if no bowel movement for 3 days or if abdominal pain worsens.

Q: Timing with other meds

A: Use a dosing chart or reminders to keep medicines separated.

When to validate: Check with clinician if another important medicine must be taken close to sucralfate.

Clinical Decision Support

Severity Assessment Framework

Clinical assessment framework for Sucralfate adverse effects using standardized severity grading.

Mild
Indicators: Minimal symptoms, No functional impairment, Patient comfortable continuing
Action: Continue medication with supportive care and routine monitoring
Moderate
Indicators: Noticeable symptoms, Some functional impact, Patient/family concerned
Action: Consider dose adjustment, increase monitoring frequency, provide supportive care
Severe
Indicators: Significant symptoms, Functional impairment, Quality of life affected
Action: Consider discontinuation, evaluate alternatives, close clinical follow-up

Treatment Decision Guidelines

Immediate Discontinuation

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Life-threatening adverse effects
  • Signs of toxicity

Consider Alternatives

  • Persistent moderate side effects
  • Inadequate therapeutic response
  • Patient/family preference

Dose Modification

  • Mild side effects with good efficacy
  • Age-related sensitivity
  • Drug interaction concerns

Clinical References

SucralfateMedlinePlus (2024)Drug information
Sucralfate Oral SuspensionDailyMed (2024)Label

Frequently Asked Questions

Parent and clinician concerns about Sucralfate