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PetDosageChart

Carafate (Sucralfate) Dosage for Dogs

Gastrointestinal protectant ⏱ Onset: 30 minutes to form protective barrier ⏳ Duration: 6-8 hours

This dosage information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet. Dosages may vary based on your pet's health conditions, other medications, and individual factors.

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Carafate Dosage Chart for Dogs by Weight

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Weight Low Dose Standard Dose Max Dose Frequency
5 lbs (2.3 kg) 92mg 115mg 138mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
10 lbs (4.5 kg) 180mg 225mg 270mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
15 lbs (6.8 kg) 272mg 340mg 408mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
20 lbs (9.1 kg) 364mg 455mg 546mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
25 lbs (11.3 kg) 452mg 565mg 678mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
30 lbs (13.6 kg) 544mg 680mg 816mg (1000mg tablet) Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
40 lbs (18.1 kg) 724mg 905mg (1000mg tablet) 1086mg (1000mg tablet) Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
50 lbs (22.7 kg) 908mg (1000mg tablet) 1135mg (1000mg tablet) 1362mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
60 lbs (27.2 kg) 1088mg (1000mg tablet) 1360mg 1632mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
70 lbs (31.7 kg) 1268mg 1585mg 1902mg (2 × 1000mg) Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
80 lbs (36.3 kg) 1452mg 1815mg (2 × 1000mg) 2178mg (2 × 1000mg) Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
90 lbs (40.8 kg) 1632mg 2040mg (2 × 1000mg) 2448mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
100 lbs (45.4 kg) 1816mg (2 × 1000mg) 2270mg 2724mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
120 lbs (54.4 kg) 2176mg (2 × 1000mg) 2720mg 3264mg Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach
150 lbs (68 kg) 2720mg 3400mg 4080mg (4 × 1000mg) Every 8-12 hours on an empty stomach

What is Carafate (Sucralfate) used for in dogs?

Gastric ulcers Duodenal ulcers Esophagitis NSAID-induced GI erosion Stress-related mucosal damage

How to give Carafate to your dog

Give sucralfate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before feeding and 2 hours apart from other medications. Tablets can be given whole or dissolved in a small amount of warm water to create a slurry for easier administration via syringe. For small dogs, your vet will advise on the appropriate fraction of a tablet. Do not give at the same time as other oral medications.

Available Forms

Tablet, Oral suspension

Give with Food?

No — can be given without food

Side effects of Carafate in dogs

Common side effects

Constipation
Dry mouth
Mild nausea
Decreased appetite

Serious side effects

  • Aluminum toxicity with prolonged use in renal patients
  • Severe constipation or bowel obstruction
  • Bezoar formation (rare)
  • Hypophosphatemia with chronic use

When to call the vet

Call your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs:

  • Vomiting blood or passing black tarry stools
  • Severe constipation or straining to defecate
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep medication down
  • Signs of abdominal pain (hunched posture, whimpering)
  • Worsening lethargy or weakness

Frequently Asked Questions

Why must sucralfate be given on an empty stomach?
Sucralfate works by forming a paste-like protective coating over ulcerated tissue in the stomach and intestines. It needs direct contact with the damaged mucosa to adhere properly. Food in the stomach prevents this adhesion, greatly reducing the drug's effectiveness.
Can sucralfate be given with other medications?
Sucralfate should be given at least 2 hours before or after other medications. It can bind to and reduce the absorption of many drugs, including antibiotics, heart medications, and antacids. Always space it out from other oral medications.
How do I give sucralfate tablets to a small dog?
Sucralfate tablets can be dissolved in a small amount of warm water to form a slurry, which can then be syringed into the dog's mouth. This is especially helpful for small dogs that cannot take a full 1000 mg tablet. Ask your vet for the correct portion of the dissolved tablet.
How long does it take for sucralfate to heal an ulcer in dogs?
Sucralfate typically helps relieve symptoms within a few days as the protective barrier forms. Complete ulcer healing usually takes 2-8 weeks depending on the severity and underlying cause. It is often used alongside acid-reducing medications like omeprazole for best results.
Is sucralfate safe for dogs with kidney disease?
Sucralfate contains aluminum, which can accumulate in dogs with impaired kidney function and potentially cause toxicity. Dogs with kidney disease should use sucralfate with caution and only under veterinary supervision with regular monitoring.