Q: What is the procedure for sucralfate rectal retention suspension?

A: Sucralfate in an acid medium (gastric contents) forms a complex with protein that can coat gastric mucosa, especially ulcer sites. It has been used topically to aid healing of venous stasis ulcers and in the treatment of bleeding skin ulcers of malignancy. It has been administered rectally as a slurry in the treatment of distal colitis. Some absorption of aluminum can occur: sucralfate should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Amounts administered varied among the studies from 2 to 6 g.

Procedure:

1.Weigh and/or measure the ingredients accurately.

2. Place 8 sucralfate tablets in a 120-mL glass Rx bottle.

3. Add 40.00 mL of purified (distilled) water to the bottle in Step 2, and allow it to stand for about 2 min.

4. Add 40.00 mL of sorbitol 70% and shake well.

5. Flavoring may be added to this preparation, if the flavoring does not contain acids or suspending agents.*

6. Add sufficient purified (distilled) water to the suspension in Step 4 to bring the volume of the preparation to 120 mL (use a graduated cylinder for this step).

7. Label: "Shake Well" and "Refrigerate" (no preservative is included in this preparation). Counsel the patient to remove the preparation or the amount to be administered from the refrigerator at least 1/2 hr before administration to allow it to come to room temperature.

Mr. Erickson is director of professional affairs at Gallipot Inc.

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