Sucralfate
Carafate (sucralfate) is a prescription gastrointestinal medication used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and small intestine. It works by forming a protective coating over ulcer sites, shielding them from stomach acid, pepsin, and bile to promote healing. This medication is commonly prescribed for duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, and sometimes for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Carafate is a protectant medication that forms a protective coating over stomach and intestinal ulcers to help them heal.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 227743
- Generic
- Carafate
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats and prevents duodenal and gastric ulcers, and is sometimes used for stress ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Carafate is a cytoprotective agent that binds to proteinaceous material at ulcer sites, creating a physical barrier that protects the damaged mucosa from gastric acid, pepsin, and bile salts.
Take on an empty stomach (1 hour before meals and at bedtime). May reduce absorption of other medications—take other drugs at least 2 hours apart. Common side effects include constipation and dry mouth. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, as the medication contains aluminum.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy