Carafate
Sucralfate
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Carafate
Carafate is a gastro protective (protects stomach from the harmful effects of acids, enzymes etc.) medicine. It acts by forming a protective layer over ulcers of stomach which acts as a barrier against acids, enzymes etc.
Therapeutic Uses of Carafate
Carafate is used in the treatment and prevention of peptic ulcer. It can also be used in other medical conditions that your doctor determines.
Direction of use of Carafate
Carafate should be taken as per the direction of your doctor.
- Carafate is taken orally at least 1 hour before meal and at least 2 hours after meal.
- Do not take Carafate along with other medication (it will prevent absorption of other medicines). It should be taken at least 2 hours after taking other medicines. If you have any question about the direction of use of Carafate consult your doctor or other health care provider.
- Do not take any antacid at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after taking Carafate.
Dose of Carafate, if Missed
If a dose of Carafate is missed take it as soon as you can. If you miss for long enough that it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose and take Carafate as regular dosing. No need to take 2 doses of Carafate at a time.
How to Store Carafate
Carafate should be stored at room temperature (between 68 to 77 degree Fahrenheit or 20 to 25 degree Centigrade). It can be stored at little higher or lower temperature than ideal for a brief period. It should be kept in a tightly closed container away from moisture, direct heat and direct light. It should be kept out of reach of children.
More Information About Carafate
If there is no improvement of symptoms of ulcer contact your doctor immediately. Carafate should be used by the patient only, for whom it is prescribed. Never share it with anyone.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Carafate
Do not use Carafate if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Carafate and consult your doctor immediately.
Important notes to remember:
- Dizziness is one of the common side effects of Carafate, which can be aggravated by concurrent use of alcohol or certain medications. So, do not drive or perform risky jobs that require constant attention until you are sure that Carafate do not cause dizziness in you.
- Pregnancy and breast feeding: if you are pregnant do not take Carafate. If you become pregnant or plan to get pregnant while taking Carafate, consult your doctor about the risks and the benefits of using Carafate during pregnancy. Carafate is found in the breast milk or not is not known. If you are breast feeding while taking Carafate than consult your doctor about the possible risks to your baby.
- Use Carafate with extreme caution in children as the safety and effectiveness of Carafate in children is not established.
- Carafate has aluminum in it and you should contact your doctor if you are taking another medicine that also has aluminum in it.
Possible Adverse Effects
- If you get any of the common side effects of Carafate like headache, dizziness, vertigo, change in taste etc. consult your doctor for advice.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you get allergic reaction to Carafate. The symptoms of allergic reaction include skin rash, itching all over the body, hives, dizziness, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of face, mouth, tongue, lips etc.