Sucralfate: From Basic Science to the Bedside

Current research on new therapeutic agents for the treatment of peptic disease have focused on a series of new compounds that may work by mechanisms other than neutralizing acid or suppressing acid secretion in the human stomach. Sucralfate is the first in this series of compounds to be available for use in clinical trials. Sucralfate explores the mechanisms of action of this novel compound that acts as a nonsystemic agent capable of successfully treating peptic disease. Highlighting the immense value of worldwide cooperation in sucralfate's development, international investigators provide an excellent summary of the latest progress in understanding peptic disease and sucralfate's role in its therapy. In addition to featuring experimental advances and results from clinical trials and actual medical practice, chapters provide a historical survey of the field; describe sucralfate's synthesis, various interactions, and clinical efficacy; and present future directions for research. Salient topics include: pathophysiology of peptic ulcer disease; chemistry of sucralfate; effect of sucralfate on gastric surfactant; effect of sucralfate on Helicobacter pylori; safety of sucralfate in clinical practice; and use sucralfate in nonulcer dyspepsia, gastritris, and duodenitis. A unique compilation of well-established findings and results from cutting-edge research, Sucralfate serves to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical applications in this fascinating area of gastroenterology and gastrointestinal physiology. The discussions also place sucralfate in the forefront of research and make it a springboard for future discoveries in gastrointestinal pathophysiology.