Carafate (sucralfate) is an anti-ulcer medication.
Carafate is not greatly absorbed into the body through the digestive tract. It works mainly in the lining of the stomach by adhering to ulcer sites and protecting them from acids, enzymes, and bile salts.
Carafate is used to treat an active duodenal ulcer. Sucralfate can heal an active ulcer, but it will not prevent future ulcers from occurring.
Carafate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Carafate if you are allergic to sucralfate.
To make sure Carafate is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
FDA pregnancy category B. Carafate is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
It is not known whether sucralfate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Carafate?
Take Carafate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take Carafate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. Measure the liquid with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the ulcer is completely healed.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after you take Carafate. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid?
Avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after you take Carafate. Sucralfate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth.
Avoid using antacids without your doctor"s advice. Use only the type of antacid your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for Carafate to work in your stomach. If your doctor does recommend using an antacid, avoid taking it within 30 minutes before or after taking Carafate.
Carafate side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Carafate: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common Carafate side effects may include:
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nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
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stomach pain;
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constipation, diarrhea;
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mild itching or skin rash;
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sleep problems (insomnia);
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dizziness, drowsiness, spinning sensation;
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headache; or
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back pain.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Carafate?
Carafate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth. Avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after you take sucralfate.
Other drugs may interact with Carafate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
