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Sucralfate Coupon - Sucralfate 1g tablet

sucralfate

Generic Carafate
Used for Heartburn, GERD, Duodenal Ulcer
Used for Heartburn, GERD, Duodenal Ulcer

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.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on February 29, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Sucralfate (Carafate)?

What is Sucralfate (Carafate) used 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

How Sucralfate (Carafate) works

Sucralfate (Carafate) is an antiulcer medication. It forms a layer that lines the stomach and small intestine. This layer acts as a protective barrier around the ulcer (open sore) to prevent further damage and to let it heal.

When does Sucralfate (Carafate) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsCarafate
Drug ClassAntiulcer
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Sucralfate (Carafate)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Constipation (2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Upset stomach
  • Dry mouth
  • Itching
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Rash

Source: DailyMed

More on Sucralfate (Carafate) side effects

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5 Sucralfate (Carafate) Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Written by Hindu Rao, PharmD, APh, BCACP

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

Blue lips and fingernails

blurred vision

chest pain

cough

coughing that sometimes produces a pink frothy sputum

difficult, fast, noisy breathing

difficulty in swallowing

dry mouth

feeling of fullness

flushed, dry skin

fruit-like breath odor

hoarseness

increased hunger

increased sweating

increased thirst

increased urination

loss of appetite

nausea

pale skin

slow or irregular breathing

stomach pain

sweating

swelling of the face, mouth, lips, or throat

swelling of the legs and ankles

tightness in the chest

troubled breathing

unexplained weight loss

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Constipation

Rare

Back ache

bloated

constipation

diarrhea

dizziness or lightheadedness

excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

headache

hives, itching, skin rash

indigestion

passing gas

sensation of spinning

sleepiness

stomach cramps

trouble sleeping

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Sucralfate (Carafate)

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Sucralfate (Carafate)

pharmacist

  • Take sucralfate (Carafate) on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after you eat). Taking it with food can affect how well the medication forms a protective coating over the ulcer.

    • Make sure to tell your pharmacist and primary care provider about all of the medications you take before you start sucralfate (Carafate). Also tell them about any new medications you plan to take during treatment. They can help you figure out when you should take each of your medications to avoid sucralfate (Carafate) drug interactions.

      • If you need to take antacids to help with ulcer pain, make sure you take them at least 30 minutes before or after sucralfate (Carafate). Sucralfate (Carafate) won't work as well if you take antacids at the same time as your ulcer medication.

        More tips for the sucralfate (Carafate) oral suspension (liquid) only:

        • Shake the bottle well before each time you measure out your sucralfate (Carafate) dose. This makes sure the medication hasn't settled at the bottom.

          • Only use a medication dose cup or oral syringe from the pharmacy to measure out your dose. Don't use household spoons because they aren't accurate and might cause you to take the wrong dose.

            • If you have diabetes, ask your primary care provider if you need to check your blood sugar more often while you're taking sucralfate (Carafate). The suspension might raise your blood sugar levels.

              • Store the sucralfate (Carafate) suspension at room temperature in the original bottle it came in from the pharmacy.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Sucralfate (Carafate)

                How quickly does sucralfate (Carafate) work?
                Sucralfate (Carafate) starts working as soon as 1 to 2 hours after you take it. But it could take weeks or months of taking the medication every day for your ulcer to heal.
                Does sucralfate (Carafate) interact with other medications?
                Yes. Sucralfate (Carafate) has the potential to interact with many medications. This is because sucralfate (Carafate) can attach to other medications in your stomach after you take them. For this reason, it's recommended to take certain medications 2 hours before you take sucralfate (Carafate). Share a list of your current medications with your prescriber and pharmacist before you start taking sucralfate (Carafate). They can advise on the best time you should take your medications to prevent any interactions.
                What happens if you take sucralfate (Carafate) with food?
                If you take sucralfate (Carafate) with food, the medication might not work as well to protect your ulcer and allow it to heal. Sucralfate (Carafate) needs to reach the lining of your stomach and intestines so it can protect your ulcer. But food can block the medication's way. This is why you should take sucralfate (Carafate) on an empty stomach. Make sure to take the medication at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
                Is sucralfate (Carafate) an antacid?
                No, sucralfate (Carafate) isn't considered an antacid. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid; they help relieve ulcer pain by making the stomach less acidic. On the other hand, sucralfate (Carafate) works as a physical barrier to protect the ulcer from the acidic conditions of the stomach so the ulcer can heal. Your prescriber might recommend taking an antacid together with sucralfate (Carafate) to manage your ulcer treatment. But keep in mind that you shouldn't take your antacid within 30 minutes before or after sucralfate (Carafate) because sucralfate (Carafate) can work less well if you take them at the same time.
                Does sucralfate (Carafate) cause constipation?
                It can. Constipation was a side effect that people who took sucralfate (Carafate) reported during clinical studies. Be sure to stay hydrated and choose foods that are high in fiber (e.g., beans, nuts). Reach out to your healthcare team if you need help managing constipation.
                Does sucralfate (Carafate) help with stomach pain?
                Sucralfate (Carafate) helps coat your ulcer so that it can heal. Over time, your pain symptoms should get better as your ulcer heals. If you need pain relief, your prescriber might recommend an antacid to lessen the amount of acid in the stomach that can irritate your ulcer.
                Is sucralfate (Carafate) over the counter?
                No, you won't be able to find sucralfate (Carafate) in the pharmacy aisles as an over-the-counter medication. This medication requires a prescription from a healthcare professional.
                Can you take sucralfate (Carafate) for gastritis?
                Sucralfate (Carafate) isn't FDA approved to treat gastritis, a condition when the stomach lining is inflamed. This medication is only approved to treat duodenal ulcers, or sores in the intestine. But it's been used off-label for many other stomach or gut conditions. This means that the FDA hasn't reviewed how well sucralfate (Carafate) works or how safe it is for these conditions. Speak with your prescriber about your treatment options for other stomach or gut conditions, such as gastritis.
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                What are the risks and warnings for Sucralfate (Carafate)?

                Sucralfate (Carafate) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                High aluminum levels

                • Risk factors: History of kidney problems | Taking other products that contain aluminum

                  Sucralfate (Carafate) contains a small amount of aluminum, which can get absorbed into the body through the stomach when you take the medication. Your kidneys are normally able to get rid of extra aluminum from sucralfate (Carafate) and aluminum-containing antacids or supplements.

                  But people with kidney problems might have a harder time getting rid of this extra aluminum from the body. As a result, people with kidney problems might have a higher risk of having high aluminum levels in the body. High aluminum levels can cause confusion, muscle weakness, and bone pain. Get medical attention right away if you experience any of these symptoms.

                  dosage

                  Sucralfate (Carafate) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 60 tablets of 1g of Sucralfate (Carafate) is $14.64 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 45.39% off the average retail price of $26.81.
                  ml of oral suspension
                  Ml of oral suspension
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  10ml of 1g/10ml420 ml$64.64$0.15
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  1g60 tablets$14.64$0.24

                  Typical dosing for Sucralfate (Carafate)

                  • Active duodenal ulcer: The typical dose for the tablet or oral suspension is 1 gram by mouth four times per day on an empty stomach for 1 to 2 months.

                  • Maintenance treatment (tablets only): The typical dose is 1 gram by mouth twice per day.

                  More on Sucralfate (Carafate) dosage forms

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                  Sucralfate Dosages: Your GoodRx Guide

                  Written by Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA
                  interactions

                  Interactions between Sucralfate (Carafate) and other drugs

                  Sucralfate (Carafate) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Sucralfate (Carafate). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  More on Sucralfate (Carafate) interactions

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                  Health: Sucralfate: woman using smartphone in supermarket 1221447841

                  Should You Avoid Certain Foods While Taking Sucralfate?

                  Written by Katherine Krive, DO

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Sucralfate (Carafate) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                  Carafate (brand)
                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $14.64

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                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $14.64

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                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Sucralfate (Carafate)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Sucralfate (Carafate). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Sucralfate (Carafate)
                  Used 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

                  $14.64 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Famotidine (Pepcid AC)
                  Used for:

                  • Prevention and treatment of heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD)

                  $6.60 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Omeprazole (Prilosec)
                  Used for:

                  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

                  • Inflamed esophagus due to GERD

                  $5.88 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  images

                  Sucralfate (Carafate) images

                  White Oblong Teva, 22 10, Biocraft, And 105 105 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "105 105", "Biocraft", "22 10", And "Teva".White Oblong Teva, 22 10, Biocraft, And 105 105 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  White Oblong N S1 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "N S1".White Oblong N S1 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  White Oblong N S1 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "N S1".White Oblong N S1 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  Pink Oblong 17 12 And Carafate - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Carafate" And "17 12".Pink Oblong 17 12 And Carafate - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  Pink Oblong A56 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "A56".Pink Oblong A56 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  White Oblong 6 75 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "6 75".White Oblong 6 75 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  White Oblong 6 75 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "6 75".White Oblong 6 75 - Sucralfate 1g Tablet

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. (2015). ToxFAQs™ for aluminum.

                  Amneal Pharmaceuticals NY LLC. (2023). Sucralfate- sucralfate tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Candelli, M., et al. (2000). Role of sucralfate in gastrointestinal diseases. Panminerva Medica.

                  View All References (5)

                  Hechanova, L. A. (2022). Dialysis. Merck Manual Consumer Version.

                  Kudaravalli, P., et al. (2024). Sucralfate. StatPearls.

                  National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2019). Definition & facts for gastritis and gastropathy.

                  Pacific Pharma, Inc. (2024). Sucralfate suspension [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Vakil, N., et al. (2023). Medications for the treatment of stomach acid. Merck Manual Consumer Version.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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