Key takeaways
Omeprazole (Prilosec) and Sucralfate (Carafate) are both used to treat conditions related to stomach acid, but they work in different ways. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid by blocking its production, and it can be used for heartburn, GERD, and ulcers. It is available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Sucralfate, on the other hand, is an antiulcer medication that forms a protective barrier over ulcers to help them heal, and it is only available by prescription. Omeprazole is typically taken once daily, while Sucralfate needs to be taken up to four times a day on an empty stomach. Omeprazole can cause side effects like headache and stomach pain, whereas Sucralfate's most common side effect is constipation. Additionally, Sucralfate can interact with many medications by attaching to them in the stomach, so you need to take other medications at different times. Both medications are available in generic forms.
