Carafate, known generically as sucralfate, is a medication prescribed to treat ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. It works by creating a protective layer over damaged tissue, shielding it from stomach acids, digestive enzymes, and bile salts. This physical barrier facilitates the healing process. Its action is localized, working directly at the ulcer site rather than being significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. This localized action helps alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Taking Carafate Pills
Carafate is typically prescribed as a 1-gram dose, taken four times daily for active ulcers. Take this medication on an empty stomach, usually one hour before meals and at bedtime. This timing allows sucralfate to bind effectively to the ulcer site; food can compromise its adherence.
Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water. If you have difficulty swallowing, tablets can be dispersed in a small amount of water to create a slurry immediately before administration. Discuss this method with your healthcare provider. If using the liquid suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose to ensure even distribution. Consistent adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is important, even if symptoms begin to improve.
Important Considerations During Treatment
Carafate can interact with other medications by hindering their absorption, so spacing out administration times is necessary. Antacids should be taken at least 30 minutes before or after Carafate. Other medications, including H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and certain antibiotics, should be taken at least two hours before or after Carafate.
The duration of Carafate treatment for active ulcers typically ranges from four to eight weeks. Completing the full course of treatment as prescribed is important to ensure complete ulcer healing. For preventing ulcer recurrence, a lower maintenance dose might be prescribed for up to 12 months. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose; skip the missed dose in that case. Double dosing is not recommended.
Proper storage of Carafate is also important. The medication, whether tablets or suspension, should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive moisture and heat. The liquid suspension should not be frozen. Contact a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen, new severe symptoms develop, or there is no noticeable improvement after a reasonable period of treatment.
Understanding Potential Side Effects
While Carafate is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. The most commonly reported side effect is constipation. Other mild, less frequent side effects include nausea, dry mouth, indigestion, headache, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, insomnia, back pain, or skin rash. These effects are usually not serious and may resolve as the body adjusts to the medication.
In rare instances, more serious side effects can occur, necessitating immediate medical attention. These include signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. Another rare but serious concern is the formation of a gut blockage, known as a bezoar. Consult a healthcare professional if any severe or bothersome side effects persist or worsen. For mild constipation, increasing fluid and fiber intake may offer some relief.