Carafate

Indicated For

peptic ulcer, duodenal ulcer

About This Medication

# Carafate (Sucralfate) Patient Assistance Options Guide: How to Get Your Medication at Low or No Cost Carafate (sucralfate) is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent stomach and intestinal ulcers by forming a protective barrier over the damaged tissue, allowing it to heal.[7] Unlike many brand-name drugs, **Carafate does not have a dedicated manufacturer patient assistance program (PAP)** from its producer, as no specific program details like income thresholds or application processes were identified in available resources.[1][5] Instead, patients can access low-cost options through discount coupons, third-party assistance programs, Medicare support, and state resources. This guide explains eligibility for these alternatives, step-by-step access, and tips to minimize costs, which can drop from an average of $715 for 120 tablets to as low as $26-$70 per month.[2][9] ## About Carafate (Sucralfate) **Carafate**, known generically as **sucralfate**, belongs to the class of peptic ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) agents.[7] It works by coating the ulcer site, shielding it from stomach acid, enzymes, and bile, which promotes faster healing. It's available as oral tablets or suspension, taken on an empty stomach, typically 1 gram four times daily.[7] Common uses include short-term treatment of duodenal ulcers (up to 8 weeks) and maintenance therapy. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, allergies to sucralfate, or are pregnant/breastfeeding, as adjustments may be needed.[7] Side effects are usually mild, like constipation, but it can interfere with other medications' absorption—take it 2 hours before or after others.[7] Always shake the suspension well and use a proper measuring device.[7] Without insurance, costs are high: around $715 for 120 generic 1gm tablets.[9] But patient-friendly options make it affordable. ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? Since no manufacturer PAP exists for Carafate,[1][5] qualification focuses on discount programs and government aid: - **Discount Coupons (e.g., GoodRx, SingleCare, BuzzRx, WellRx, Optum Perks)**: Open to **everyone**, insured or uninsured. No income check. Savings up to 80%, e.g., $26.56 for 120 tablets via SingleCare or $70/month via Prescription Hope.[2][6][7][9][10] - **Medicare Extra Help/LIS**: For low-income Medicare Part D enrollees. Eliminates premiums/deductibles, low copays. Income up to 150% federal poverty level (FPL) typically.[8] - **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)**: Vary by state, often for seniors/low-income. Check your state's Department of Aging.[4][8] - **Third-Party Programs like Prescription Hope**: $70/month flat fee after pre-qualification; broader access.[2] **Medicare Note**: Carafate often isn't covered by Part D, making discounts essential.[9] New 2025 changes include a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap and Payment Plan to spread costs.[8] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown No strict PAP income limits apply, but here's a table for relevant programs like Medicare Extra Help (2026 estimates based on prior years; confirm current via SSA.gov): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (150% FPL) | Assets Limit (individual/couple) | Program | |---------------|------------------------------|---------------------------------|---------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$22,590 | ~$17,550 / $35,000 | Extra Help[8] | | 2 (Couple) | ~$30,660 | ~$17,550 / $35,000 | Extra Help[8] | | 3 | ~$38,730 | N/A | Extra Help[8] | | 4 | ~$46,800 | N/A | Extra Help[8] | *Notes*: FPL adjusts yearly. Discount coupons have **no income limits**. SPAPs vary (e.g., some up to 200% FPL).[4][8] ## Insurance Requirements Most options work **with or without insurance**: - Coupons like GoodRx/SingleCare apply **after insurance** if cheaper, or for uninsured.[4][9] - **Medicare patients**: Part D may not cover; use coupons or Extra Help. Some PAPs exclude Medicare, but none here do.[4][8] - Avoid double-dipping: Use pharmacy discount if insurance copay is higher.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Consult Your Doctor**: Confirm Carafate need. Ask for 90-day supply to save more (lower copays).[4] 2. **Check Medicare Extra Help**: Apply via SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Provide income/assets proof. Approval in weeks.[8] 3. **Get a Coupon**: - Visit GoodRx.com, SingleCare.com, BuzzRx.com, WellRx.com, or OptumPerks.com.[6][7][9][10] - Search "Carafate" or "sucralfate", print/email/text coupon. - Present at pharmacy (e.g., CVS, Walmart). Instant savings![9] 4. **Third-Party Programs**: Enroll at PrescriptionHope.com for $70/month. Pre-qualify online.[2] 5. **State Aid**: Contact state Dept. of Aging or NeedyMeds.org for SPAPs.[5][8] 6. **RxAssist/NeedyMeds Search**: Double-check for updates.[1][5] No shipping/forms for coupons—immediate! ## Timeline and Delivery - **Coupons**: Instant at pharmacy. 90-day supply in one trip.[4][9] - **Extra Help**: 4-6 weeks processing.[8] - **Prescription Hope**: Quick pre-qualify, monthly delivery.[2] - Refills: Request 90-day scripts. Use app for coupon renewals. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Generic Sucralfate**: Same as Carafate, cheaper with coupons ($26+).[9] - **Other Discounts**: Switch providers if one pharmacy's price higher. - **90-Day Mail-Order**: Via insurance or Optum ($5 delivery).[4][10] - **NeedyMeds/RxAssist**: Explore clinics, samples.[1][5] - **Financial Aid**: Local clinics via NeedyMeds.org.[5] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. **No official Carafate PAP exists**; options are third-party/coupons.[1][5] Eligibility, prices change—verify with providers. Consult healthcare professional before changes. Not medical/financial advice. Resources: RxAssist.org, NeedyMeds.org, GoodRx.com.[1][4][5]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026