SUCRALFATE – ORAL (sue-KRAL-fate)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Carafate
USES: This medication is used to treat ulcers.
HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor’s approval. Stopping therapy too soon may result in ineffective treatment. Antacids can block the effect of this medication. Do not take antacids 30 minutes before or after taking this medication
SIDE EFFECTS: Indigestion, dizziness, dry mouth, back pain, or itching may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: stomach/intestinal problems, kidney disease, difficulty swallowing, any allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially if you are taking: certain antibiotics (tetracyclines such as doxycycline or quinolones such as ciprofloxacin), antacids, phenytoin, cimetidine, ranitidine, digoxin, ketoconazole, penicillamine, theophylline. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Your doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes such as stress-reducing programs, diet changes and exercise to assist in treatment and prevention of ulcers.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
