Medications
 
 

Sucralfate Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effect of sucralfate is constipation. Some of the other possible reactions include nausea, indigestion, and gas. Although most problems are minor and are generally easy to treat, serious side effects may also occur. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives, or confusion.

An Introduction to Sucralfate Side Effects

As with any medicine, sucralfate (Carafate®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with sucralfate. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Side Effects to Report

There are a number of side effects with sucralfate that you should report to your healthcare provider.
 These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Signs or symptoms of aluminum toxicity, such as:
     
    • Weak bones
    • Muscle and bone pain
    • Confusion or other mental changes
 
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
     
    • Unexplained skin rashes
    • Itching
    • Hives
    • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
    • Unexplained swelling
    • Difficulty swallowing.
 
Aluminum toxicity is most likely to occur with long-term use of sucralfate in individuals with chronic kidney failure or those who are receiving dialysis treatments.
 
Sucralfate Side Effects Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation