Carafate (Sucralfate)

What is Carafate?

Carafate is an anti ulcer medicine.

What is Carafate used for?

Carafate is indicated for the treatment of ulcers occurring in the intestines. The medicine prevents further damage.

How does Carafate work?

Carafate contains Sucralfate which forms a coating on the ulcer and prevents further damage. This coating helps them to heal faster.

How to use Carafate

Carafate should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

Take Carafate tablets orally, swallowing it with a full glass of water. You are advised to take the tablets on an empty stomach or at least one to two hours after taking the food. Do not chew, break or crush the tablet unless you have confirmed it from the doctor.

If you are taking the oral suspension, shake the liquid thoroughly before pouring it in the special measuring device provided to you.

Carafate warnings and precautions

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Carafate or any of its ingredients.

Tell your doctor if you have suffered from or are suffering from kidney diseases or are on dialysis.

Avoid oily and spicy food and acidic drinks.  Eat fresh food. Normally, a liquid or a semi solid diet is prescribed. Take the diet prescribed by the doctor.

Carafate is not expected to harm pregnant mothers or unborn babies. However, it is best to consult the doctor before taking this medicine. Do not take it out of your own accord. Lactating women must also consult their doctors before taking this medicine even though it has not been known if Carafate passes through breast milk.

What do I do if I have missed a Carafate dose?

If you have missed your Carafate dose, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose to catch up.

What do I do if I have taken a Carafate overdose?

If you have taken a Carafate overdose, you should seek emergency medical attention.

Carafate interactions

Before taking Carafate, consult your doctor if you are taking drugs like cimetidine or Tagamet; levothyroxine medicine (Synthroid); phenytoin  medicines (Dilantin); ranitidine  (Zantac); tetracycline (Brodspec, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap); quinidine  drugs like Quin-Release, Quinaglute theophylline  medicines; a blood thinner such as warfarin or heparin; or certain antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, lomefloxacin, ketoconazole (Nizoral), digoxin medicines like digitalis, Lanoxin and others.

Also, tell your doctor about all the prescribed and non prescribed medicines and herbal medicines that you take or will take even while you are undergoing this treatment. This will help your doctor know your exact condition and they will give you the dosage that will be most beneficial for you.

Carafate side effects

Get immediate medical help if you experience Carafate side effects in the form of allergic reaction like hives, breathing trouble and swelling of your face, tongue, lips or throat.

Less serious side effects from Carafate include headache or back pain, mild itching or skin rash, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion, constipation or diarrhea; sleep problems  such as insomnia, dizziness, drowsiness, or spinning sensation. If you experience any of these, consult your doctor and have your dose altered.

Do not ignore any side effects of Carafate and keep checking your progress with the doctor.