Sucralfate
Also sold as: Carafate, Antepsin
Prescription neededAcidity and ulcers
Comes as:TabletSuspension
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose: 1 g four times a day (1 hour before meals and at bedtime), or 2 g twice a day, for 4 to 8 weeks. Do not take antacids within 30 minutes of it.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- constipation
- dry mouth
- nausea
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe allergic reaction
- high blood sugar in diabetes (suspension)
- muscle weakness or confusion in kidney disease
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Severe kidney disease (aluminium can build up)
- Difficulty swallowing (tablets can stick — use the liquid)
- Take other medicines at least 2 hours before sucralfate
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Serious1 medicineDo not take these together unless your doctor says so.
- Ciprofloxacin
Sucralfate greatly reduces ciprofloxacin absorption; take ciprofloxacin at least 2 hours before.