The Basics
What is Sucralfate?
Used to treat and prevent ulcers in the intestines.
Brand names for Sucralfate
Carafate
How Sucralfate is classified
Anti-Ulcer Agents, Gastrointestinal Agents
Sucralfate During Pregnancy
Sucralfate pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Sucralfate while pregnant
Teratogenicity studies have been performed in mice, rats, and rabbits at doses up to 50 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus due to sucralfate. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Taking Sucralfate While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Sucralfate?
No data are available on sucralfate use during breastfeeding; however, it is virtually unabsorbed orally. Most authorities consider sucralfate acceptable to use during breastfeeding.[1][2][3][4] No special precautions are required.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No data are available on sucralfate use during breastfeeding; however, it is virtually unabsorbed orally. Most authorities consider sucralfate acceptable to use during breastfeeding.[1][2][3][4] No special precautions are required.
Possible effects of Sucralfate on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Sucralfate
Antacids, Cimetidine, Famotidine, Nizatidine, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Ranitidine.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Lewis JH, Weingold AB and the Committee of FDA-Related Matters, American College of Gastroenterology. The use of gastrointestinal drugs during pregnancy and lactation. Am J Gastroenterol. 1985;80:912-23. PMID: 2864852
2. Hagemann TM. Gastrointestinal medications and breastfeeding. J Hum Lact. 1998;14:259-62. PMID: 10205441
3. Broussard CN, Richter JE. Treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease during pregnancy and lactation: what are the safest therapy options? Drug Saf. 1998;19:325-37. PMID: 9804446
4. Richter JE. Review article: the management of heartburn in pregnancy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2005;22:749-57. PMID: 16225482
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
