Carafate Side Effects

Generic name: sucralfate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 18, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Carafate Side Effects associated with sucralfate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Carafate.

Applies to sucralfate: oral suspension, oral tablet.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. Check with your doctor right away if you have increased thirst or increased urination. If you notice a change in the results of your urine or blood sugar tests, or if you have any questions, check with your doctor.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Common side effects of Carafate

Some side effects of sucralfate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Serious side effects of Carafate

Along with its needed effects, sucralfate (the active ingredient contained in Carafate) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking sucralfate:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to sucralfate: compounding powder, oral suspension, oral tablet.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported side effect was constipation.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Constipation
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Dry mouth, nausea
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Bezoar formation
• Frequency not reported: Diarrhea, flatulence, gastric discomfort, indigestion, vomiting
• Postmarketing reports: Lip swelling, mouth edema^[Ref]

Bezoars were reported in patients with enteral feedings, delayed gastric emptying, and/or low birthweight neonates.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache
• Frequency not reported: Dizziness, drowsiness/sleepiness, encephalopathy, vertigo
• Postmarketing reports: Cerebral emboli^[Ref]

Encephalopathy occurred in patients with chronic renal impairment and/or on long-term treatment.

Cerebral emboli occurred in patients receiving IV administration.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Urticaria
• Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Rash
• Frequency not reported: Pruritus
• Postmarketing reports: Face edema^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Back pain, osteodystrophy, osteomalacia^[Ref]

Osteodystrophy and osteomalacia occurred in patients with chronic renal impairment and/or on long-term treatment.^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Anaphylactic reaction, hypersensitivity reactions^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Dyspnea
• Postmarketing reports: Bronchospasm, laryngeal edema, pharyngeal edema, pulmonary emboli, respiratory tract edema^[Ref]

Pulmonary edema occurred after IV administration.^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Thirst
• Postmarketing reports: Face edema^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Anemia^[Ref]

Anemia occurred in patients with chronic renal impairment and/or on long-term treatment.^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Insomnia^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Hyperglycemia^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Edema^[Ref]

See also:

Frequently asked questions

• Can you buy something like carafate over the counter without a prescription?

Further information

Carafate side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer