Carafate
Also see more information on Carafate Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
Brand name:
Carafate
Pronounced: CARE-uh-fate
Generic name: Sucralfate
Why is Carafate prescribed?
Carafate Tablets and Suspension are used for the short-term
treatment (up to 8 weeks) of an active duodenal ulcer; Carafate
Tablets are also used for longer-term therapy at a reduced dosage
after a duodenal ulcer has healed.
Carafate helps ulcers heal by forming a protective coating over
them.
Some doctors also prescribe Carafate for ulcers in the mouth and
esophagus that develop during cancer therapy, for digestive tract
irritation caused by drugs, for long-term treatment of stomach
ulcers, and to relieve pain following tonsil removal.
Most important fact about Carafate
A duodenal ulcer is a recurring illness. While Carafate can cure
an acute ulcer, it cannot prevent other ulcers from developing or
lessen their severity.
How should you take Carafate?
Carafate works best when taken on an empty stomach. If you take
an antacid to relieve pain, avoid doing it within one-half hour
before or after you take Carafate. Always take Carafate exactly as
prescribed.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Protect the suspension from
freezing.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking
Carafate.
-
More common side effects may include:
Constipation
Why should Carafate not be prescribed?
There are no restrictions on the use of this drug.
Special warnings about Carafate
If you have kidney failure or are on dialysis, the doctor will
be cautious about prescribing this drug. Use of Carafate while
taking aluminum-containing antacids may increase the possibility of
aluminum poisoning in those with kidney failure.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Carafate
If Carafate is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Carafate with
the following:
Antacids such as Mylanta and Maalox
Blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Drugs for controlling spasms, such as Bentyl
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Levothyroxine (Synthroid)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Quinidine (Quinidex)
Quinolone antibiotics such as Cipro and Floxin
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Tetracycline (Sumycin)
Theophylline (Theo-Dur)
Page:
1
|
2
previous |
next
Also see more information on Carafate Oral from the
First Databank
drug library.
| 
Email this page
Printer friendly
Bookmark this page
