Carafate is usually administered orally as a suspension or tablet. Dosage and administration depend on the illness or condition, but in general, the following apply:

Carafate should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. It is essential to take Carafate at least 2 hours apart from other medications, especially antacids, as they may interfere with its effectiveness.

Tablets: Take with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

Suspension: If you are given the liquid form (suspension), shake the bottle well before each dose. Use a proper measuring device to ensure an accurate dose.

Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions regarding Carafate dosage and duration of use. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage, as higher doses may increase the risk of side effects.

 Upon intake, Carafate turns into a gel-like substance which coats the ulcerative area inside the stomach or intestines. This protective coat helps to prevent the acidic action and the digestive enzymes from irritating the ulcer further and thus contributes to healing.

Unlike many drugs that are carried out systemically, Carafate acts locally, directly within the ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract. This reduces a person’s chances of secondary effects compared to drugs generally affecting the body.

 Carafate also stimulates the production of prostaglandins, which help to protect the mucosal lining of the stomach and intestines by increasing the production of mucus and bicarbonate. These substances help protect the stomach lining from the damaging effects of stomach acid.

Although Carafate is generally safe, some side effects may occur. Common side effects include the following:

Constipation: Constipation is one of the most common side effects of Carafate, and it can occur in up to 2-10% of people taking the medication. If constipation becomes a problem, you may need to take a stool softener or increase dietary fiber intake.

Dry Mouth: Some individuals may experience a dry mouth or a feeling of coating in the mouth after taking Carafate. This is typically mild and should resolve with continued use.

Nausea or Upset Stomach: Mild nausea or an upset stomach can occur, especially when starting treatment.

Rash or Itching: In rare cases, Carafate may trigger an allergic response, which may be visible as a rash or itching. If you notice any symptoms of an allergic reaction in the form of a rash or more, you should stop the medication and seek medical help.

Dizziness or Headache: Some people experience dizziness or headache while taking Carafate, but it is not a very common side effect.

Before using Carafate, it is important to be aware of the following:

Allergic Reactions: Individuals who are allergic to sucralfate or any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation should not use Carafate.

Renal Impairment: Carafate is excreted by the kidneys, and thus, it should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. If you have a history of kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor your kidney function during treatment.

Not for Immediate Relief of Heartburn: Carafate is not used to treat immediate heartburn or acid reflux symptoms. It takes time to work on ulcers but doesn’t give quick relief to acid reflux symptoms.

Drug Interactions: Concomitant use of Carafate with other drugs can impede the absorption of them including antacids, the effect of antibiotics like tetracycline, and ciprofloxacin, which will inhibit the action of another drug called phenytoin that is used in seizing or preventing seizures. Maintain 2 hours gap among intake of Carafate along with other drugs.

1. Antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide) – Can reduce Carafate’s effectiveness; should be taken at least 30 minutes apart.

    

2. Fluoroquinolone & Tetracycline Antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, doxycycline) – Carafate binds to these drugs, reducing their absorption; take them 2 hours before or 6 hours after.

    

3. Levothyroxine (for hypothyroidism) – Carafate may reduce thyroid medication absorption, requiring careful timing.

    

4. Digoxin & Warfarin – Carafate may lower absorption, potentially reducing their therapeutic effects.

    

To maximize Carafate’s effectiveness, take it on an empty stomach, usually 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. Always follow a healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid drug interactions.

Carafate is usually administered as follows:

Duodenal Ulcers: The recommended adult dose is 1 gram (10 mL of suspension or 1 tablet), taken four times daily, for up to 4-6 weeks.

Gastric Ulcers: The dosage is the same as that for duodenal ulcers, but the treatment period may differ depending on the patient.

Maintenance Therapy: Once the ulcer has healed, a lower maintenance dose may be prescribed to prevent recurrence, usually 1 gram twice daily.

Children: Carafate is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s prescribed regimen to ensure the best results and avoid potential complications.

Carafate is a prescription drug and should be ordered by a doctor. You should have a medical practitioner assess your symptoms and diagnose the right treatment. The doctor will consider your medical history, including kidney function and other medications you may be taking, before prescribing Carafate.

1. What is Carafate?

   • Carafate is a prescription medication that contains sucralfate, which is primarily used to treat and prevent ulcers in the intestines and stomach.

2. How does Carafate work?

   • Carafate works by forming a protective barrier over the ulcer site, which helps to shield it from stomach acid and promotes healing.

3. What conditions is Carafate used to treat?

   • Carafate is used to treat duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and as a protective agent in patients with severe burns or other conditions that cause mucosal injury.

4. How should I take Carafate?

   • Carafate is usually taken by mouth, either as a tablet or liquid suspension, typically on an empty stomach, 1 hour before meals and at bedtime.

5. What are the common side effects of Carafate?

   • Common side effects include constipation, dry mouth, nausea, and stomach cramps. Serious side effects are rare but may occur.

6. Can I take Carafate with other medications?

   • Carafate can interact with other medications. It is best to space out the administration of other prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs by at least two hours.

7. Is Carafate safe for everyone?

   • Carafate is generally safe for many people but may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease. Always consult a doctor.

8. How long should I take Carafate?

   • The duration of treatment will depend on the specific condition being treated. Typically, it may be prescribed for a few weeks to several months.

9. What should I do if I miss a dose of Carafate?

   • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the time of your next dose. Don’t double up on doses.

10. Can Carafate be used during pregnancy?

    • Carafate is classified as a Category B medication, meaning it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but always consult a healthcare provider.

11. Is Carafate effective for treating GERD?

    • While Carafate can help protect the esophagus and stomach lining, it is often used in conjunction with other medications for GERD.

12. Can I drink alcohol while taking Carafate?

    • It’s best to avoid alcohol while taking Carafate, as alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and may reduce the medication’s effectiveness.

13. How should Carafate be stored?

    • Carafate should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it out of reach of children.

14. What happens if I take too much Carafate?

    • Taking too much Carafate can lead to serious side effects; seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.

15. Can children take Carafate?

    • Carafate can be prescribed for children, but the dosage must be determined by a healthcare provider based on their age and condition.

16. Does Carafate cause weight gain?

    • Weight gain is not a common side effect of Carafate; however, individual reactions can vary, and any significant changes should be discussed with a doctor.

17. Can I use antacids while taking Carafate?

    • You should wait at least 30 minutes after taking Carafate before using antacids, as they can interfere with its effectiveness.

18. What dietary changes should I make while on Carafate?

    • A diet low in irritants such as caffeine, spicy foods, and acidic drinks can help reduce symptoms while taking Carafate.

19. How long does it take for Carafate to start working?

    • Many patients may start to feel relief within a few days, but complete healing of ulcers may take longer.

20. What should I do if my symptoms don’t improve with Carafate?

    • If your symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider for a reassessment and possible alternative treatments.