Carafate (Sucralfate)

Do's

• Take Carafate by mouth on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before a meal, as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 2 to 4 times daily.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Use Carafate regularly at the same times each day to get the most benefit from it.
• Continue taking Carafate even if you do not feel ulcer pain, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. It may take 4 to 8 weeks for your ulcer to heal completely.
• Some medications may not work as well if taken at the same time as Carafate. They may need to be taken at a different time of the day. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for help in creating a dosing schedule that works with all your medications.
• Antacids can be used with Carafate, but they should be taken at least 30 minutes before or after taking Carafate.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse after taking Carafate for 4 weeks.

Common Side Effects:

• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Upset stomach
• Gas
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention):

• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing)
• Black stools
• Persistent stomach pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Signs of a new infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Carafate, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. This includes allergies to sucralfate itself or any of the inactive ingredients in the medication.

Inform your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have:

• Kidney problems
• Difficulty swallowing or a history of aspiration
• Stomach or intestinal problems, like delayed emptying
• Tube feeding or a tracheotomy (breathing tube)

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products, before any surgery or dental work.

Adults 65 and older are at increased risk of high aluminum levels when taking Carafate with other aluminum-containing products like antacids.

Pregnant women: Discuss Carafate use with your doctor before taking it.

Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking Carafate, as the safety and potential effects on the infant are unknown.