Carafate Tablets (Sucralfate) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 26, 2012

Carafate

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) »

GERD Facts

GERD is a condition in which the acidified liquid content of the stomach up into the esophagus.
The causes of GERD include an abnormal lower esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, abnormal esophageal contractions, and slow emptying of the stomach.
GERD may damage the lining of the esophagus, thereby causing inflammation (esophagitis), although usually it does not.
The symptoms of uncomplicated GERD are heartburn, regurgitation, and nausea.
Complications of GERD include ulcers and strictures of the esophagus, Barrett's esophagus, cough and asthma, throat and laryngeal inflammation, inflammation and infection of the lungs, and collection of fluid in the sinuses and middle ear.
Barrett's esophagus is a pre-cancerous condition that requires periodic endoscopic surveillance for the development of cancer.
GERD may be diagnosed or evaluate...

Read the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) article »

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Carafate Tablets Consumer (continued)

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, dry mouth, upset stomach, gas, and nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if these unlikely but serious side effects occur: an unusual/persistent feeling of fullness in the stomach, nausea/vomiting/stomach pain especially after meals.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

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

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking sucralfate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, difficulty swallowing, stomach/intestine problems (e.g., delayed gastric emptying), tube feeding.

Kidney function declines as you grow older. This medication contains aluminum, which is normally removed by your kidneys. Therefore, elderly people may be at greater risk for developing high aluminum levels while using this drug with other products that contain aluminum (e.g., antacids).

If you are pregnant, tell your doctor before using sucralfate.

It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.