Sucralfate for horses is an effective medication for both gastric ulcers and hindgut ulcers.
For for horses with gastric ulcers, sucralfate works in conjunction with omeprazole to help your horse feel better whilst undergoing treatment for ulcers. It forms a thick, viscous layer that will stick to the ulcer site and act as a protective film, providing fast relief to the horse. The effect is immediate and it works for around 6-8 hours.
Sucralfate is the best known treatment for hindgut ulcers. It is a sucrose and aluminium hydroxide complex that works by binding to the site of ulceration and forming a ‘protective coating’ over the lesion.
When should I treat my horse with sucralfate?
While it’s excellent at protecting the horse’s digestive tract, sucralfate inhibits the absorption of other medications & supplements. For this reason, sucralfate needs to be fed 30 minutes before or two hours after meals or medication. Timing the sucralfate dosage right is very important.
How often should I administer sucralfate to my horse?
Ideally sucralfate should be given two or three times a day, either 30 minutes before or two hours after meals or medication. Sucralfate should not be given at the same time as other medications, as it’s known to limit their effectiveness. The ideal treatment length is 21 days.
Sucralfate doesn’t cause any changes to digestion as it is not directly absorbed by the horse. Instead, it provides a protective barrier that protects the horse from acid buildup and pathogenic bacteria. For that reason, sucralfate can be an effective way to prevent horse ulcers.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If a dose is missed, give as soon as possible; if the next dose is within a few hours of the normal schedule, wait, and give at the regular time. Do not double the dose.
What is the recommended dosage of sucralfate for horses?
- 500kg (1100lb) horse: 3 x sachets per dose (up to 3 times a day)
- 300kg (660lb) pony: 2 x sachets per dose (up to 3 times a day)
For best results it should be fed in liquid form, usually on an empty stomach.
What Should I do After the Treatment?
To manage horse health after treatment and stop ulcers recurring in future, your horse will need an ongoing care plan . This includes feeding an ulcer-appropriate diet, exercise, medication and lifestyle changes.
