Sucralfate (Carafate): Uses, Warnings, and Key Facts
Quick summary: Sucralfate is an active ingredient used to treat gastric or duodenal ulcers. In the United States, the brand name mentioned in the source is Carafate. It works by forming a protective coating...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Sucralfate is an active ingredient used to treat gastric or duodenal ulcers. In the United States, the brand name mentioned in the source is Carafate.
It works by forming a protective coating over the ulcer area in an acidic environment, helping shield it from gastric juice.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace the official patient leaflet, a pharmacist’s advice, or guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this page to self-diagnose or to change any treatment plan.
What is sucralfate?
Sucralfate is an active ingredient used to treat gastric or duodenal ulcers. The source content identifies Carafate as the brand name in the United States.
It is also described as being used for prophylaxis of gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulcer in seriously ill patients.
How sucralfate works
In an acidic medium, sucralfate produces a viscous gel that adheres to the proteins of the ulcerous crater. This creates a protective layer that helps shield the area from the corrosive action of gastric juice.
Uses and therapeutic indications
- Gastric ulcer
- Duodenal ulcer
- Prophylaxis of gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulcer in seriously ill patients
Contraindications
The source content lists hypersensitivity as a contraindication.
Dosage information from the source
The following dosing information appears in the original content. Always verify the exact dose, schedule, and duration with the official leaflet or a healthcare professional.
| Use | Source dosage information |
|---|---|
| Gastric or duodenal ulcer | Oral, 1 g 4 times/day (before main meals and before bedtime), for 4–8 weeks |
| Prophylaxis of gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulcer in critically ill patients | 1 g every 4 hours, oral or via nasogastric tube |
Warnings and precautions
The original content includes the following precautions:
- Not recommended in children under 14 years.
- Not recommended in patients with severely altered renal function, including uremia and dialysis patients.
- There is a risk of bezoar formation, especially in intensive care settings.
- There is a risk of encephalopathy.
- Do not administer intravenously.
If you are reviewing this medicine for a patient, confirm the intended route, formulation, and monitoring advice in the official product information.
Kidney failure
The source content states that sucralfate is not recommended in patients with severely altered kidney function, including uremia and dialysis patients.
Drug interactions
Sucralfate may decrease the absorption of several medicines. The source content lists the following examples:
- Tetracycline
- Tobramycin
- Colistine
- Amphotericin B
- Phenytoin
- Sulpiride
- Digoxin
- Cimetidine
- Ranitidine
- Ketoconazole
- Delayed-release theophylline
- Quenodeoxycholic acid
- Ursodeoxycholic acid
- Levothyroxine
The source also notes:
- Administer 2 hours later with fluoroquinolones, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin.
- Caution with oral anticoagulants such as warfarin.
- It increases alcohol absorption with medications containing hydrogen sodium-potassium citrate.
If a patient takes multiple medicines, the official leaflet or a pharmacist should review timing and interaction risk.
Pregnancy
The source content says to avoid use in pregnancy because data are limited.
It also states that animal studies do not suggest direct or indirect harmful effects on pregnancy, embryofetal development, childbirth, or postnatal development, but the potential risk in humans is not known.
Breastfeeding
The original content says it is not known whether sucralfate is excreted in breast milk.
It also notes that a physician should assess whether to continue or discontinue breastfeeding and/or therapy based on the benefit to the child versus the benefit of treatment to the mother.
Adverse reactions and side effects
The source content lists constipation as an adverse reaction.
What to verify in the official leaflet
Because product information can vary by country and formulation, it is sensible to confirm the following before use:
- Exact indication for the prescribed product
- Route of administration
- Timing with other medicines
- Warnings for kidney problems
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding guidance
Safety reminder
Do not use this summary as a substitute for medical advice. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, or if there are concerns about interactions, kidney disease, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult a qualified healthcare professional and check the official medication guide.
FAQs about sucralfate
▸ What is sucralfate used for?
According to the source content, sucralfate is used for gastric or duodenal ulcers and for prophylaxis of gastrointestinal bleeding due to stress ulcer in seriously ill patients.
▸ How does sucralfate protect ulcers?
It forms a viscous gel in an acidic environment that adheres to the ulcer area and helps protect it from gastric juice.
▸ What side effect is listed in the source?
Constipation is the adverse reaction mentioned in the original content.
▸ Can sucralfate interact with other medicines?
Yes. The source lists several medicines whose absorption may be reduced, including levothyroxine, phenytoin, digoxin, ketoconazole, and some antibiotics.
▸ Is sucralfate recommended in kidney failure?
The source content says it is not recommended in patients with severely altered kidney function, including uremia and dialysis patients.
▸ Is sucralfate safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The source says to avoid use in pregnancy because data are limited, and that it is not known whether the medicine passes into breast milk.
Source notes
This article was rewritten from the provided content and aligned with the source references listed below. For official drug details, always consult the FDA medication guide and the product’s approved information.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.