The following information is a summary about Carafate. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
What is sucralfate?
Sucralfate covers the site of an ulcer in the stomach and protects it from acids, enzymes, and
bile salts.
Sucralfate is used to treat and to prevent stomach ulcers.
Sucralfate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about sucralfate?
Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals.
If an antacid is needed, it should be taken at least one-half hour before or after a dose of
sucralfate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sucralfate?
Before taking sucralfate, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may require a
dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment with sucralfate if you have kidney disease.
Sucralfate is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an
unborn baby. Do not take sucralfate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether sucralfate passes into breast milk. Do not take sucralfate without
first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take sucralfate?
Take sucralfate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions,
ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take sucralfate tablets with a full glass of water.
Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals.
Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct
dose, use a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon, to measure a dose of sucralfate. If
you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
Do not stop taking sucralfate even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve
before the condition is fully treated.
Store sucralfate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the
missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose unless
otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of sucralfate is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or poison
control center if you suspect an overdose.
Symptoms of a sucralfate overdose are unknown.
What should I avoid while taking sucralfate?
If an antacid is needed, it should be taken at least one-half hour before or after a dose of
sucralfate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate.
Sucralfate side effects
Stop taking sucralfate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic
reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take sucralfate and talk
to your doctor if you experience
- nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation;
- dizziness; or
- sleepiness.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect sucralfate?
Sucralfate may affect many other medications by binding to them and decreasing their
effectiveness. Other medications should be taken at least 2 hours before a dose of sucralfate whenever
possible to reduce the chance of an interaction.
If an antacid is needed, it should be taken at least one-half hour before or after a dose of
sucralfate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with sucralfate. Talk to your doctor and
pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has additional information about sucralfate written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Sucralfate is available with a prescription under the brand name Carafate. Other brand or
generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this
medication, especially if it is new to you.
- Carafate 1 gram--light-pink, oblong, scored tablets
- Carafate Suspension, 1 gram per 2 teaspoons (10 mL)--pink suspension
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
