Carafate (Sucralfate) is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat active duodenal ulcers. A duodenal ulcer is a sore or hole that forms in the intestine or stomach lining. The active ingredient in Carafate is Sucralfate. Sucralfate belongs to a class of medications called protectants. It works by forming a coating over ulcers to protect the area from further injury and promote healing.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Carafate from Canada manufactured by Abbvie and Turkey by a different manufacturer. The generic Sucralfate is available from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Carafate. The most common side effects of Carafate may include the following:
• Back pain;
• Constipation;
• Dry mouth;
• Gas;
• Headache;
• Nausea;
• Stomach upset
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Swallowing difficulties;
• Unusual feeling of fullness that doesn't go away
These are not all of the side effects of Carafate. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Carafate if you are allergic to Sucralfate or any ingredient in Carafate. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Are using a breathing tube;
• Have diabetes;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have stomach problems;
• Have trouble swallowing tablets
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Carafate and other medicines, like ciprofloxacin, digoxin, ketoconazole, levothyroxine, phenytoin, quinidine, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Carafate can harm your fetus. This drug should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Sucralfate passes into breast milk or if it may harm your nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Carafate is a tablet. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew them. Take the drug by mouth on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal. Use this drug regularly to get the most benefit from it. You should keep taking Carafate even if you don't feel ulcer pain. It may take 4 to 8 weeks for your ulcer to heal completely. Do not take antacids with Carafate. Use them at least 30 minutes before or after taking Sucralfate. Avoid taking any other medications within 2 hours before or after taking Carafate. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.