Carafate® (Sucralfate) for Duodenal Ulcers and GERD

Sucralfate is a prescription medicine for ulcers and acid-related symptoms. It protects irritated tissue in the stomach and duodenum. We offer Canadian pricing with US delivery from Canada. Also known by the brand Carafate®, it may help you save even without insurance.

CanadianInsulin is a prescription referral service. We verify your prescription with your clinic, and licensed Canadian pharmacies dispense your order.

What Carafate® Is and How It Works

Sucralfate belongs to a class of gastrointestinal protectants. In an acidic environment, it forms a sticky, gel-like coating over ulcer sites. This barrier shields tissue from acid, pepsin, and bile salts. It supports healing while you continue other clinician-directed care.

Very little sucralfate is absorbed into the bloodstream. Most of the action is local in the gut. The product contains aluminum, which contributes to its protective effect.

You can buy sucralfate online through our platform. Your order ships to the US from Canada after prescription verification.

Who Carafate® Is For

Sucralfate is indicated for the short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcers. Clinicians may also use it to support symptom control in certain acid-related conditions when appropriate. It can be continued at a lower maintenance dose after initial healing, per the approved label.

Do not use sucralfate if you have had an allergic reaction to it or any component of the formulation. Use caution if you have chronic kidney disease, especially if on dialysis, due to aluminum accumulation risk. The oral suspension may contain sugar; people who must limit sugars should review ingredients with their clinician. If you need rapid heartburn relief, over-the-counter options like Pepcid® Ac Easy Swallow may be considered by your clinician for separate use.

Dosage and Usage

Follow your clinician’s directions and the official label. Common adult dosing patterns include:

• Active duodenal ulcer: 1 gram by mouth four times daily, typically 1 hour before meals and at bedtime.
• Maintenance therapy: 1 gram by mouth twice daily, if prescribed after healing.
• Oral suspension is dosed to provide the same total daily amount as tablets; use a proper measuring device.

Take sucralfate on an empty stomach. Swallow tablets with water. Shake the suspension well before each dose. Separate sucralfate from other medicines to reduce binding interactions. Many medicines should be given at least 2 hours before or after sucralfate. Antacids, if needed, are usually taken at least 30 minutes apart.

When uncertain, defer to the official prescribing information or your clinician’s guidance.

Strengths and Forms

Availability may vary by manufacturer or pharmacy. Common presentations include:

• Tablets: 1 gram
• Oral suspension: concentrations vary by brand; common labels include 1 g per 10 mL

In Canada, a branded suspension option such as Sulcrate® Suspension Plus may be available. Final selection depends on your prescription and pharmacy stock.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule. Do not double doses. Aim for consistent timing relative to meals for best protection.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store sucralfate at room temperature as indicated on the label. Keep tablets in a dry place and the suspension tightly closed. Protect the suspension from freezing. Keep out of reach of children. When traveling, carry your medicine in original packaging in your carry-on. You can store your supply in a cool, dry place during trips.

Benefits

Sucralfate provides targeted protection at the ulcer site. It supports healing by creating a physical barrier against stomach acid and enzymes. Systemic absorption is minimal, which limits whole-body effects. It can be used with acid-reducing therapy when directed by your clinician. Many people appreciate the non-systemic mechanism and predictable dosing routine.

Side Effects and Safety

• Constipation
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Dry mouth
• Indigestion or gas
• Headache

Serious or rare risks can include bezoar formation, especially in patients with delayed gastric emptying, and aluminum accumulation in those with significant renal impairment. Seek medical attention for severe abdominal pain, vomiting, signs of bowel blockage, allergic reactions, or unusual weakness. If you have kidney disease, discuss risks and monitoring with your clinician before starting sucralfate.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Sucralfate can reduce the absorption of certain medicines by binding them in the gut. Examples include some antibiotics, thyroid replacement, and antifungals. Separate these medicines from sucralfate by at least 2 hours, or as advised by your clinician.

• Thyroid medication such as Synthroid®
• Some azole antifungals like Ketoconazole
• Fluoroquinolone or tetracycline antibiotics
• Digoxin, warfarin, and phenytoin

Use antacids only as directed and space them at least 30 minutes from sucralfate. If you also take medicines for nausea or motility, such as Metoclopramide, ask your clinician about timing to avoid reduced effectiveness. People with severe kidney disease should use caution due to aluminum accumulation.

What to Expect Over Time

Symptom relief often builds gradually as the protective barrier supports healing. Your clinician may switch you to a maintenance dose after the initial course if needed. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your clinic for evaluation. Do not stop prescribed ulcer therapy early unless advised.

Compare With Alternatives

Acid-reducing therapy is commonly used alongside or instead of sucralfate, depending on the clinical goal. H2 blockers such as Famotidine reduce acid production and can help with heartburn and ulcer care. Proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole are often used for more potent and sustained acid suppression. Your clinician will choose based on diagnosis, symptom pattern, and risk factors.

Pricing and Access

See current sucralfate price and compare tablet versus suspension costs. You can request generic sucralfate with Canadian pricing and US shipping. Upload your prescription, review the sucralfate cost, and complete secure checkout. Orders ship to the US from Canada after we confirm your prescription with your clinic. Encrypted checkout protects your information.

Many patients compare brand versus generic options for savings. If you need a specific concentration or bottle size, include those details with your request. Our team will confirm what is available before dispensing.

Availability and Substitutions

Availability can change based on manufacturer supply. If a specific strength or form is temporarily unavailable, your prescriber may recommend a suitable alternative or a different form of sucralfate. Your final supply depends on your prescription and the dispensing pharmacy’s stock. We cannot promise restock dates.

Patient Suitability and Cost Saving Tips

Sucralfate may suit adults with active duodenal ulcers, or those who need a non-systemic option to support healing. It may be preferred when minimizing systemic exposure is important. It may not be ideal for people with severe renal impairment or those who cannot separate doses from other critical medicines.

• Ask about a multi-month fill to reduce per-fill costs.
• Confirm whether tablets or suspension better fit your routine.
• Set refill reminders to avoid treatment gaps.
• Review all medicines to plan spacing and avoid waste.
• Discuss diet and lifestyle steps that support ulcer healing.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• Is sucralfate appropriate for my type of ulcer?
• Should I use it with an H2 blocker or PPI?
• What is my target treatment duration and maintenance plan?
• How should I space sucralfate from my other medicines?
• Will the suspension or the tablet work better for me?
• What side effects should prompt a call to the clinic?
• Are there dietary changes that can support healing?

Authoritative Sources

DailyMed: Carafate (sucralfate) Tablets

DailyMed: Sucralfate Oral Suspension

Health Canada DPD: Sulcrate (sucralfate)

Start your sucralfate request today for US delivery from Canada. This page is educational and does not replace medical advice from your clinician.