This page contains drug information on Carafate.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Carafate
the possible side effects of Carafate
what happens if you miss a dose of Carafate
what happens if you overdose with Carafate
the most important information about Carafate
how to use Carafate
other drugs that may affect Carafate
what to avoid while using Carafate
 
Generic Name: sucralfate (oral) (soo KRAL fate)
Brand Names: Carafate
 
What is the most important information I should know about carafate?
 •  carafate 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 carafate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of carafate.

What is carafate?
 •  carafate covers the site of an ulcer in the stomach and protects it from acids, enzymes, and bile salts.
 •  carafate is used to treat and to prevent stomach ulcers.
 •  carafate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking carafate?
 •  Before taking carafate, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment with carafate if you have kidney disease.
 •  carafate is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take carafate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
 •  It is not known whether carafate passes into breast milk. Do not take carafate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take carafate?
 •  Take carafate 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 carafate tablets with a full glass of water.
 •  carafate 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 carafate. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
 •  Do not stop taking carafate even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated.
 •  Store carafate 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 carafate is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or poison control left if you suspect an overdose.
 •  Symptoms of a carafate overdose are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking carafate?
 •  If an antacid is needed, it should be taken at least one-half hour before or after a dose of carafate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of carafate.

What are the possible side effects of carafate?
 •  Stop taking carafate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing closing of your throat swelling of your lips, tongue, or face or hives).
 •  Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take carafate and talk to your doctor if you experience
      · nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation
      · dizziness or
      · sleepiness.
 •  Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect carafate?
 •  carafate may affect many other medications by binding to them and decreasing their effectiveness. Other medications should be taken at least 2 hours before a dose of carafate whenever possible to reduce the chance of an interaction.
 •  If an antacid is needed, it should be taken at least one-half hour before or after a dose of carafate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of carafate.
 •  Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with carafate. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.