Preparations
Suspension/Carafate: 1 g/10 mL (or 100mg/ml)
Tablet: 1 g Things to be aware of:
- Sucralfate is a cytoprotective agent, which is a substance that
helps protect the lining of the stomach and upper small intestine.
- It works by forming a protective layer over a stomach or intestinal
ulcer to shield it against acid (by coating it with the protective
layer) so that healing can occur.
- If an antacid is needed, it should be taken two hours before or
after a dose of sucralfate. Antacids decrease the effectiveness of
sucralfate.
- Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or
two hours after meals.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost
time for your next dose, go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not
take 2 doses at once.
- Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that
you get the correct dose, use a dose-measuring spoon or cup.
- Sucralfate may interfere with absorption of vitamin A, vitamin D,
vitamin E, and vitamin K from foods
Storage:
Store Carafate Tablets at 77 degrees (25 degrees C). Store away from
heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Carafate
out of the reach of children and away from pets. Pediatric Dosing:
In children the dose is not yet established, though doses of 40-80
mg/kg/day divided every 6 hours have been used. Other Uses:
Sucralfate is used to treat and to prevent stomach ulcers.
Medication Interactions:
- H2 receptors including ranitidine, (ZANTAC) and tagamet.
- Antacids decrease the effectiveness of sucralfate.
- Sucralfate may affect many other medications by binding to them
and decreasing their effectiveness. Other medications should be taken
at least 2 hours before a dose of sucralfate whenever possible to
reduce the chance of an interaction.
- If you have kidney failure or are on dialysis, the doctor will be
cautious about prescribing this drug. Use of Carafate while taking
aluminum-containing antacids may increase the possibility of aluminum
poisoning in those with kidney failure.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea,
constipation, dizziness, sleepiness. Allergic reactions rarely occur.
|
