ULSANIC is a medicine used to treat and help manage stomach and digestive tract conditions caused by excess acid and ulcers. It contains the active ingredient sucralfate, which forms a protective layer over damaged areas in the stomach and digestive tract, helping them heal while reducing irritation from stomach acid.
SCHEDULING STATUS : S0
ULSANIC is available in South Africa in three forms:
- ULSANIC 1 g Tablets
- ULSANIC Effervescent Tablets
- ULSANIC Suspension
This medicine belongs to a group of medicines that act on the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract.
How ULSANIC Works
ULSANIC works differently from many acid-reducing medicines. Instead of reducing acid production, it creates a protective coating over ulcers and inflamed tissues in the stomach and oesophagus.
This protective layer:
- Shields ulcers from stomach acid
- Protects irritated stomach lining
- Helps ulcers heal naturally
- Absorbs harmful substances such as pepsin, trypsin and bile acids
- Provides relief from ulcer-related symptoms
Conditions Treated with ULSANIC
ULSANIC is used for the treatment and management of:
Gastric Ulcers
Ulcers that develop in the lining of the stomach.
Duodenal Ulcers
Ulcers that develop in the first part of the small intestine.
Chronic Gastritis
Long-term inflammation of the stomach lining.
Reflux Oesophagitis
Inflammation of the oesophagus caused by acid reflux.
Symptom Relief
ULSANIC may help relieve symptoms such as:
- Upper stomach pain
- Burning sensation caused by excess acid
- Vomiting
- Discomfort related to peptic ulcers
Maintenance Therapy
It may also be used after a duodenal ulcer has healed to help prevent the ulcer from returning.
Available Forms and Strengths
ULSANIC 1 g Tablets
Each tablet contains:
- 1 g sucralfate
ULSANIC Effervescent Tablets
Each effervescent tablet contains:
- 1 g sucralfate
These tablets are dissolved in water before use.
ULSANIC Suspension
Each 5 ml contains:
- 1 g sucralfate
The suspension is a liquid option suitable for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
Who Should Not Use ULSANIC?
Do not use ULSANIC if you are allergic to:
- Sucralfate
- Any of the ingredients contained in the product
Always discuss any allergies with your healthcare professional before starting treatment.
Important Warnings and Precautions
Kidney Problems
Patients with kidney disease or those receiving dialysis should use ULSANIC with caution.
Because sucralfate contains aluminium, long-term use may lead to aluminium build-up in people with impaired kidney function.
Low Phosphate Levels
ULSANIC may reduce phosphate absorption from the digestive tract. Patients with phosphate deficiencies should speak to their healthcare provider before using this medicine.
Elderly Patients
Older adults may be more sensitive to medicines and may require careful dosage adjustments.
Long-Term Use
The safety of maintenance treatment beyond 12 months has not been fully established.
Driving and Operating Machinery
ULSANIC may cause:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Patients should avoid driving, operating machinery or performing hazardous tasks until they know how the medicine affects them.
Important Information for People with Diabetes
ULSANIC Effervescent Tablets contain lactose.
Patients with diabetes should be aware that lactose may influence blood sugar control.
People with certain inherited conditions involving lactose, galactose or fructose intolerance should avoid using the effervescent tablets.
Medicine Interactions
ULSANIC can affect the absorption of other medicines.
Examples include:
- Digoxin
- Levothyroxine
- Phenytoin
- Ketoconazole
- Tetracycline
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
- Quinidine
- Theophylline
- Warfarin
- Cimetidine
- Ranitidine
Timing Matters
To reduce interaction risks:
- Take other medicines at least 2 hours apart from ULSANIC.
- Take antacids at least 30 minutes apart from ULSANIC.
- Allow at least 1 hour between ULSANIC and enteral feeding.
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and supplements you are taking.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The safety of ULSANIC during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established.
It is also unknown whether sucralfate passes into breast milk.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using this medicine.
Recommended Dosage
Adults
The usual dose is:
- One tablet, one effervescent tablet or 5 ml suspension
- Three to four times daily
- Taken between meals and at bedtime
Alternative Regimen
Some patients may be prescribed:
- 2 g twice daily
- Morning and evening
Reflux Oesophagitis
Recommended dose:
- One tablet mixed with water, one dissolved effervescent tablet or 5 ml suspension
- Four times daily between meals and at bedtime
Maintenance Therapy
After healing of a duodenal ulcer:
- One tablet or effervescent tablet twice daily
- Taken on an empty stomach
- Usually continued for up to 12 months
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, ULSANIC can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Common Side Effects
- Constipation
Less Common Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Stomach discomfort
Side Effects with Unknown Frequency
- Vertigo
- Back pain
Rare Reported Cases
Some patients receiving ULSANIC Suspension together with enteral feeding have developed bezoars, which are masses that can form in the stomach.
Seek medical attention if you experience severe or unusual symptoms.
Overdose
In the event of an overdose, treatment is generally supportive and aimed at managing symptoms.
Anyone suspected of taking too much ULSANIC should seek immediate medical advice.
Storage Instructions
To maintain product quality:
- Store below 25°C
- Keep in a dry place
- Protect from light
- Keep in the original packaging
- Keep out of reach of children
Product Appearance
ULSANIC Tablets
- White, oblong tablets
- Embossed with “ULSANIC”
ULSANIC Effervescent Tablets
- Round, peach-coloured tablets with orange speckles
- Produce an orange-coloured solution when dissolved
ULSANIC Suspension
- Thick off-white liquid
- Orange-flavoured
Manufacturer and Registration Holder
ULSANIC is registered and marketed by:
PHARMACARE LIMITED
Healthcare Park
Woodlands Drive
Woodmead 2191
South Africa
Final Thoughts
ULSANIC is a well-established medicine used in South Africa for the treatment of gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis and reflux oesophagitis. By forming a protective barrier over damaged tissue, it helps reduce irritation, relieve symptoms and support healing. As with any medicine, it should be used according to the advice of a healthcare professional, especially in patients with kidney problems, diabetes or those taking other medications.
