Acefate Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blood in vomit or black, tarry stools.
- Severe abdominal pain that does not go away.
- Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
- Signs of aluminium toxicity: bone pain, muscle weakness, confusion, or seizures.
- Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is acefate syrup used for?
This medicine is an oral syrup containing sucralfate, used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestine by forming a protective barrier over the damaged area. It is taken on an empty stomach, usually four times a day.
- Generic Name: Sucralfate
- Manufacturer: Assam Chemical & Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 acefate syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सुक्राल्फेट नामक तत्व से बनी एक ओरल सिरप है, जिसका उपयोग पेट और आंतों के अल्सर के इलाज और रोकथाम के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा पेट में एक सुरक्षात्मक परत बनाकर अल्सर को एसिड और अन्य नुकसानदायक पदार्थों से बचाती है, जिससे अल्सर जल्दी भर जाता है। इसका उपयोग डुओडेनल अल्सर, गैस्ट्रिक अल्सर, और गैस्ट्रोएसोफेजियल रिफ्लक्स डिजीज (जीईआरडी) के लक्षणों को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा एंटासिड नहीं है और पेट के एसिड को तुरंत बेअसर नहीं करती। इसे खाली पेट लेना चाहिए, आमतौर पर भोजन से एक घंटा पहले और रात को सोने से पहले। इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें और दूसरी दवाओं के साथ लेते समय कम से कम दो घंटे का अंतराल रखें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सबसे आम दुष्प्रभावों में कब्ज, मुंह सूखना, जी मिचलाना, पेट में असहजता, और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव जैसे बेजोअर (पेट में गांठ) बनना, एल्युमीनियम विषाक्तता (खासकर गुर्दे की बीमारी वालों में), और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। यदि आपको गंभीर पेट दर्द, उल्टी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या मल में खून आदि दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे खाली पेट लें, आमतौर पर भोजन से एक घंटा पहले और रात को सोने से पहले। हर बार उपयोग से पहले बोतल को अच्छी तरह हिलाएं। दवा को सही मात्रा में मापने के लिए दी गई मापने वाली कप या चम्मच का ही उपयोग करें। अन्य दवाओं के साथ इस दवा को लेते समय कम से कम दो घंटे का अंतराल रखें। एंटासिड को इस दवा से 30 मिनट पहले या बाद में न लें। यदि आपको गुर्दे की बीमारी, मधुमेह, या कब्ज की समस्या है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। दवा को बंद करने से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। इसे बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें और सीधी धूप से बचाएं।
💊 acefate syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Active duodenal ulcer","description":"This medicine is used to treat active duodenal ulcers by forming a protective barrier over the ulcer site, allowing it to heal.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastric ulcer","description":"It helps in the healing of gastric ulcers by protecting the damaged stomach lining from acid and other irritants.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Maintenance therapy for duodenal ulcer","description":"It is used to prevent the recurrence of duodenal ulcers in patients with a history of recurrent ulcers.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)","description":"It provides symptomatic relief in GERD by forming a barrier over the inflamed esophagus and reducing acid exposure.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Stress ulcer prophylaxis","description":"It is sometimes used in critically ill patients to prevent stress-related mucosal bleeding.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mucositis due to chemotherapy or radiation","description":"Sometimes used as a mouth rinse or oral suspension to relieve oral mucositis, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Bile reflux gastritis","description":"May be used to protect the stomach lining from bile reflux, but this is not a standard approved indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Peptic ulcer disease
Also treats: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, Stress ulcer prophylaxis, Gastritis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Sucralfate |
| Brand Name | Ancool SF Suspension |
| Manufacturer | Assam Chemical & Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | GASTRO INTESTINAL |
| Action Class | Anti-Ulcerants |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture, or as indicated on the packaging. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works locally in the gastrointestinal tract rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream. Sucralfate is a complex of aluminium hydroxide and sulfated sucrose. In the acidic environment of the stomach, it undergoes polymerization to form a viscous, sticky gel. This gel selectively binds to the proteins in damaged tissue at the ulcer site, creating a physical barrier that protects the ulcer from further damage by acid, pepsin, and bile salts. It also inhibits the action of pepsin and adsorbs bile acids. Additionally, it may stimulate the production of prostaglandins and mucus, which further protect the stomach lining. Because it acts locally, its effects are not dependent on systemic absorption.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take acefate syrup
Strength: This medicine is available as an oral syrup containing sucralfate 1000 mg per dose unit (e.g., per 5 mL or as specified on the label).
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine for active duodenal ulcer is 1 gram (1000 mg) taken four times a day, on an empty stomach, one hour before meals and at bedtime. For maintenance therapy, the dose is typically 1 gram twice a day. For gastroesophageal reflux disease, the dose may be 1 gram four times a day. The exact dose and duration of treatment must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, severity of the condition, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to therapy. Do not self-adjust the dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the constipating effects of this medicine. Dose selection should be cautious, and renal function should be considered. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. In patients with severe renal impairment or those on dialysis, the risk of aluminium accumulation is high, and the medicine is generally not recommended. If used, the dose should be reduced and monitored closely by a clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is required for hepatic impairment, as the medicine is not metabolized by the liver. However, consult your doctor for individualized advice. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose for adults is 8 grams (8000 mg) per day, but the usual dose does not exceed 4 grams per day. The exact maximum dose must be determined by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of acefate syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ciprofloxacin | Major | |
| Tetracycline | Major | |
| Levothyroxine | Major | |
| Digoxin | Major | |
| Antacids | Moderate | |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Warfarin | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Levothyroxine
- Digoxin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antacids
- Ketoconazole
- Phenytoin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and worsen ulcers. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may counteract the protective effects and delay healing. Consult your doctor about safe alcohol consumption.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to sucralfate or any component of the formulation.","Severe renal impairment or dialysis (risk of aluminium accumulation).","Complete gastrointestinal obstruction."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Use with caution in patients with chronic kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be needed.","This medicine may cause constipation. Increase fluid and fiber intake.","Bezoars (hard masses) can form, especially in patients with delayed gastric emptying or those receiving tube feedings. Use with caution in such patients.","This medicine can reduce the absorption of many other drugs. Take other medicines at least 2 hours apart.","Do not take antacids within 30 minutes of this medicine.","If you have diabetes, check with your doctor as some liquid formulations may contain sugar.","Do not use for longer than prescribed without medical supervision."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether sucralfate passes into breast milk. Since the medicine is minimally absorbed, the amount in breast milk is likely to be very low. However, consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine is unlikely to cause serious harm because it is poorly absorbed. However, large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, constipation, or bezoar formation. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of significant ingestion, especially in patients with kidney disease, monitor for aluminium toxicity.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own. This medicine works best when taken on an empty stomach, usually one hour before meals and at bedtime, because food can reduce its ability to coat the ulcer. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed. Use a proper measuring cup or spoon provided with the product, not a household spoon, to measure the dose accurately. Do not take antacids within 30 minutes before or after this medicine, as they can interfere with its protective effect. If you are taking other medicines, take them at least two hours apart from this medicine, because sucralfate can reduce their absorption. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, diabetes, or a history of constipation. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better, because ulcers can recur if treatment is stopped too early. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more prone to constipation and other side effects. They are also at higher risk of aluminium accumulation if they have reduced kidney function. Dose selection should be cautious, and renal function should be monitored. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Sucralfate is generally considered safe, but your doctor will assess your individual situation and may recommend alternative treatments if needed.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, this medicine may be used to prevent stress ulcers. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding when to start taking it and how to take it, especially if you are on other medications. Inform your surgeon about all medicines you are taking.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine does not typically interfere with dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking, including this one, before any dental work. If you need to take antibiotics for a dental infection, remember to separate them from this medicine by at least two hours.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to exercise. However, if you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid strenuous activities until you feel better. Gentle exercise like walking can aid digestion and overall well-being.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or headache, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. The need to take it four times a day on an empty stomach may require scheduling adjustments, but most people can manage it with planning.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Even if you feel better, the ulcer may not be fully healed. Stopping early can lead to recurrence. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your condition. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe for most people, but it can lead to constipation and, rarely, bezoar formation. In patients with kidney disease, prolonged use can cause aluminium accumulation, leading to bone and brain toxicity. Regular monitoring of renal function and symptoms of aluminium toxicity is recommended for patients on long-term therapy, especially those with impaired kidney function. Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed without medical supervision.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Medicines like omeprazole reduce stomach acid production and are often used for ulcers and GERD.
Evidence: Well-establishedMedicines like ranitidine reduce acid production and can be used for ulcers.
Evidence: Well-establishedDietary changes, stress reduction, and avoiding irritants can complement medical therapy.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with vaccines. There are no specific vaccination considerations while taking this medicine. However, if you are scheduled for any vaccine, inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C).
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate or freeze.
✅ DO
Keep the bottle tightly closed.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to another container.
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom.
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children.
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially if traveling internationally. Store the bottle in your carry-on luggage to avoid extreme temperatures in checked baggage. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same intervals as prescribed, but consult your doctor for specific advice if you are on a four-times-daily schedule. Ensure you have enough supply for your entire trip, and check customs regulations for carrying liquid medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts forming a protective barrier within 30 minutes to 1 hour after you take it. However, you may not feel the full benefit for several days as the ulcer begins to heal. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed.
A: No, this medicine should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals or two hours after meals. Food can reduce its effectiveness.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: Sucralfate is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but you should consult your doctor before taking it. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.
A: You should avoid taking antacids within 30 minutes before or after this medicine, as they can reduce its effectiveness. If you need an antacid, consult your doctor for timing.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for acefate syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
sucrapil suspensionPsychotropics India Ltd ₹31.64 76.7% CHEAPER
-
starlix syrupScoshia Remedy Inc ₹52.50 61.4% CHEAPER
-
sucrid 1000mg oral suspensionEastern Drug ₹52.50 61.4% CHEAPER
-
ralfat syrupUltra Chiron Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹54.38 60% CHEAPER
-
Tpcral SuspensionEcocare ₹54.38 60% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Sucralfate syrup is an antacid.
Fact: Sucralfate is not an antacid. It does not neutralize stomach acid. Instead, it forms a protective barrier over ulcers. - Myth: You can take sucralfate syrup with food.
Fact: Sucralfate works best when taken on an empty stomach, as food can reduce its ability to coat the ulcer. - Myth: Sucralfate syrup can be taken with other medicines at the same time.
Fact: Sucralfate can reduce the absorption of many other medicines. They should be taken at least 2 hours apart.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Sucralfate oral suspension
- Sucralfate tablets
Brand Alternatives
- Acefate Syrup