This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Carafate Consumer Information
CARAFATE
Generic Name: sucralfate (oral) (soo KRAL fate)
Brand Names: Carafate
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 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 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 each dose 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 left 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.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.