Sucralfate
Brand Name: Carafate
Generic Available
Common Dosage Forms:
Tablets: 1 gram
Suspension: 1 gram/10 mL
FDA indications/Dosages:
For the short-term (from 4-8 weeks) treatment of duodenal ulcer: One gram 4 times a day on an empty stomach. Antacids may be prescribed for the relief of pain but should not be taken within 30 minutes of Carafate dose.
For the maintenance of duodenal ulcer: One gram taken twice a day on an empty stomach.
Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics: The mechanism of action of sucralfate is thought to be due to formation of an ulcer-adherent complex that convers the ulcer site and protects it against further attack by acid, pepsin, and bile attributed to the neutralization of gastric acid. Sucralfate is a basic aluminum salt of sulfated sucrose. Sucralfate is only minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. A one-gram dose of sucralfate neutralizes from 14-16 mEq of acid.
Drug Interactions: May decrease the action of phenytoin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, ranitidine, cimetidine, digoxin, tetracycline, theophylline, or penicillamine when given simultaneously with one of these agents. Administer 2 hours after these medicines when used together.
Contraindications/Precautions: Contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to sucralfate. Use with caution in patients with chronic renal failure because of possible absorption of small amounts of aluminum—avoid other agents containing aluminum including some antacids and vitamins. Pregnancy Category B.
Adverse Effects: Constipation occurs in approximately 2% of the patients taking sucralfate.
Patient Consultation:
Take on an empty stomach one hour before of two hours after a meal.
Antacids should not be taken within one-half hour of the Carafate dose.
Store away from heat, moisture, and sunlight – do not freeze suspension.
Shake suspension well prior to use.
If a dose is missed, wait until the next scheduled dose.
Do not take within 2 hours of other prescription medications (see Drug Interactions).