Mucosal Protectants

Mucosal protectants are a pair of medications that work by promoting mucus to coat the lining of the stomach and any ulcers that may be present. Sucralfate binds to positively charged proteins on the surface lining of the stomach and forms a gel for a protective lining.  Bismuth subsalicylate is a compound that works in several ways including by increasing production of mucus, inhibiting pepsin, and providing an antimicrobial effect, which is helpful in the treatment of H. pylori infections. 

Class Drugs

• Sucralfate

• Bismuth subsalicylate

Class Mechanism of Action

See individual drugs

Class Applications

See individual drugs

Class Adverse Effects

See individual drugs

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Sucralfate	Treatment of duodenal ulcers; Prevention of stress ulcers	Mechanism; Binds to positively charged mucosal proteins and forms a protective gel, which creates a physical barrier and protects mucosa from gastric acids and pepsin; Adverse Effects; May limit absorption of other medicationsNot to be used with acid suppressing medications as acidic pH is necessary for activation of compound	"Sucrose" "Fate"
Bismuth Subsalicylate	Treatment of ulcers; Treatment of H. Pylori infection; Antidiarrheal	MechanismIncreases secretion of mucusInhibits pepsinCoats and protects ulcersAntimicrobial effect useful in quadruple therapy for treatment of H. Pylori	"Bismarck" "Subway" "Sally" "Latte"