0

Home > Drug Category > Ulcer Medication/GERD > Carafate Suspension and Equivalent

Carafate Suspension Information

Carafate Suspension (Sucralfate) is used for short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer and to prevent its recurrence. An active duodenal ulcer is an open sore on the duodenal lining, the first part of the small intestine. It is a type of peptic ulcer, commonly caused by H. pylori bacteria or long-term use of NSAIDs like aspirin. Symptoms can include dull or burning pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and a feeling of fullness, while more severe cases can lead to vomiting blood or black, tarry stools. Carafate Suspension is also used off-label to treat stomach ulcers, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Mucosal protective agents like Sucralfate form a gel-like barrier that adheres directly to the ulcer surface and the damaged or inflamed lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This barrier shields the ulcer from further damage by the stomach acid and digestive enzymes, allowing the tissue to heal.

Carafate Suspension Side Effects

The most common side effects of Carafate Suspension may include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, indigestion, and nausea. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat;
• Signs of gut blockage, such as persistent stomach pain, bloating, appetite loss, or constant vomiting

Carafate Suspension Precautions

Do not use Carafate Suspension if you are allergic to Sucralfate or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have diabetes, kidney problems, swallowing problems, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Carafate Suspension and other medications, such as ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, levothyroxine, digoxin, warfarin, phenytoin, theophylline, ketoconazole, etc. Wait at least 2 hours before or after using Sucralfate before taking other oral medications. Antacids should not e taken within 30 minutes of taking Sucralfate. It is unknown if Sucralfate is safe for use in pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits of using this medicine in pregnancy with your doctor. It is unknown if Sucralfate passes into breastmilk. However, since only minimal amounts of the drug are absorbed into the body, it is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. The safety and effectiveness of Carafate Suspension in children have not been established.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Carafate comes as a suspension. Take it by mouth. Shake the bottle well before each dose. Take Carafate Suspension on an empty stomach. Take it about 1 hour before meals and again at bedtime. Use the measuring spoon or syringe provided with the bottle to measure the dose carefully. Your dose will depend on your condition. Keep using this medicine for as long as your doctor says, even if you feel better. Store Carafate Suspension at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Carafate Suspension?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Carafate Suspension.