Compare Carafate vs. Aciphex

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Heals ulcers in the intestines.

Carafate (sucralfate) has few side-effects, but is more expensive than other medicines used to treat ulcers.

Treats heartburn and ulcers.

Aciphex (rabeprazole) is good for treating heartburn and ulcers, but should not be used long-term.

Upsides
  • Has minimal side effects compared to other medicines used to treat ulcers.
  • Available in liquid formulation if you have difficulty swallowing pill.
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) works better than over-the-counter medications that have not relieved your acid reflux.
  • The delayed-release pill provides relief over 24 hours.
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) can be taken with or without food.
  • The capsule can be safely used by children as young as 1 year old.
Downsides
  • Not for long-term use.
  • Must be taken frequently, up to 4 times a day, which can be inconvenient.
  • Interferes with how a lot of other medicines are absorbed.
  • Using Aciphex (rabeprazole) for a long time can can weaken your bones or increase your risk for infectious diarrhea.
  • Lowers magnesium and vitamin B12 in your body so you may need to take supplements.
  • Aciphex (rabeprazole) interferes with how many medications work.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Liquid
  • Delayed release pill
Price
Lowest price
$12.91
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Lowest price
$13.00
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Reviews
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Side effects
The Carafate (sucralfate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
5possible side effects
  • Headache
    10%
  • Diarrhea
    5%
  • Nausea
    5%
  • Vomiting
    4%
  • Abdominal pain
    4%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Increased blood sugar
  • Decreased kidney function
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Stomach cancer
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Severe diarrhea
    • Being hospitalized
    • Antibiotic use
  • Bone fractures
    • High dose Aciphex (rabeprazole)
    • Taking Aciphex (rabeprazole) for longer than one year
    • Low bone mineral density
    • Age 50 years or older
    • Alcohol
    • Smoking
    • Taking steroids or anti-seizure medicines
  • Low levels of magnesium and vitamin B12
  • Lupus
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Carafate (sucralfate)
Learn more about Aciphex (rabeprazole)