Carafate Suspension (Sucralfate)

Do’s

• Before each dose, shake the Carafate Suspension bottle well to ensure proper dosage.
• Take Carafate Suspension by mouth on an empty stomach, typically at least 1 hour before a meal. The frequency should be as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 4 times daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Use this medication regularly to maximize its benefits. Try to take it at the same times each day to help you remember. 
• Even if you do not feel ulcer pain, continue taking this medication unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. Healing of the ulcer may take 4 to 8 weeks.
• Some medications may not work effectively if taken at the same time as Carafate Suspension. They may need to be taken at different times of the day. Consult your healthcare provider for help in creating a dosing schedule that works with all your medications.
• Antacids can be used with Carafate Suspension, but they should be taken at least 30 minutes before or after sucralfate.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or worsens after taking Carafate Suspension for 4 weeks.

Common Side Effects:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Gas
• Indigestion
• Itching
• Rash
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Sleep problems (insomnia)
• Headache
• Back pain

Serious Side Effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

This is not a complete list of side effects, and individuals should consult their healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. If any serious side effects occur, seek emergency care immediately.

Carafate Suspension should never be injected through a needle into the body, as it may lead to fatal complications, including pulmonary and cerebral emboli. Carafate Suspension should only be administered by the oral route and should not be administered intravenously.

Follow all directions on the medicine label and package. Inform all healthcare providers about any medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines being used. Additionally, avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after taking Carafate Suspension, as it can make it harder for the body to absorb other medications taken by mouth.

Dose selection for elderly patients should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Carafate Suspension.

Keep all appointments with the healthcare provider and the laboratory, as certain lab tests may be ordered to check the response to sucralfate. Keep a written list of all prescription and nonprescription medicines being taken, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements, and bring this list when visiting a healthcare provider or if admitted to a hospital.

Consult a healthcare provider for more detailed information about the warnings and precautions associated with Carafate Suspension and discuss any specific concerns or questions.