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Compare Zantac vs. Carafate

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Ranitidine (Zantac)
    Sucralfate (Carafate)
  • Ranitidine (Zantac)
    Sucralfate (Carafate)

  • Summary of Zantac vs. Carafate

    Summary for Histamine H2 antagonist

    Ranitidine (Zantac) is a medication used for heartburn and other stomach conditions. It's no longer available in the United States because it was recalled by the FDA.

    Summary for Antiulcer
    Prescription only

    Sucralfate (Carafate) is a prescription ulcer medication. It treats ulcers in the intestine (duodenal ulcers) in adults. Sucralfate (Carafate) is a protectant; the medication works directly at the site of the ulcer to protect it so it can heal. Although the medication helps ulcers heal, it isn't used to prevent future ulcers. Sucralfate (Carafate) comes in an oral suspension and tablets that are available as brand-name and generic versions. It's taken by mouth up to 4 times per day and it doesn't have many side effects since very little is absorbed from the gut.

  • Indications of Zantac vs. Carafate

    Indications for
    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment (up to 8 weeks) of duodenal ulcer (open sore in the first part of the small intestine) - tablets and oral suspension
    •Maintenance treatment of duodenal ulcer after it's healed - tablets only

  • Pros and Cons of Zantac vs. Carafate

    Pros and Const for Histamine H2 antagonist
    Pros
    Cons
    Pros and Const for Antiulcer
    Pros
    •Few side effects since the medication doesn't get absorbed into the body
    •Available as tablets, as well as a liquid for people with trouble swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Need to take 4 times per day on an empty stomach for the first 1 to 2 months
    •Can affect how other medications are absorbed in the stomach since sucralfate (Carafate) creates a layer that covers the stomach lining
    •Risk of high aluminum levels in the body in people with kidney problems

  • Common Side Effects of Zantac vs. Carafate

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •Constipation (2%)

  • Warnings of Zantac vs. Carafate

    Common Side Effects for
    Common Side Effects for
    •High aluminum levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Zantac vs. Carafate

    Learn more about Ranitidine
    Learn more about Sucralfate

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