Drug Uses

Carafate is used to treat duodenal ulcers both on a short term and on a long term. You may also be prescribed Carafate to cure mouth ulcers.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You should not take antacids at least till one hour after taking Carafate.

Please drink a full glass of water with Carafate.

It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.

Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Carafate at room temperature (read medicine label if unsure). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Overdose

An overdose of Carafate does not have serious adverse effects. However you should contact your nearest emergency poison control center immediately if you notice any side effects.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Carafate if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.

Carafate may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using Carafate. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).

Doctors may prescribe certain laboratory tests like to determine how you have responded to treatment and to gauge the severity of the side effects of Carafate. Please Keep all lab appointments and do not miss any tests.

Please inform your lab technician or surgeon that you are taking Carafate before you undergo any emergency surgical procedure including dental operations.

Since Carafate contains aluminum you should contact your health provider before taking any other medicines which have Carafate. Carafate should be used in children with extreme care as their safety in children has not been ascertained.

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Carafate to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Carafate as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.