Carafate Suspension Liquid & Endoscopy next week

I have an endoscopy scheduled for next Thursday, May 24th.  I posted earlier about this and had asked whether I should stop any PPI's and the vote was basically a yes.  Well, I haven't really been on PPI's anyway because they just seem to make my symptoms worse so that isn't a worry. 

My GI Doc had prescribed me Carafate Suspension liquid sometime ago and told me to take two teaspoons at bedtime.  I decided to start taking it about a week ago and I think it has helped somewhat because the pain in my chest when taking deep breath doesn't seem as bad as it was a week ago.

Would you recommend also stopping this Carafate liquid stuff as well?  I'm not really sure what it does other than coat my system...

Thank you - Oh...and what about Zantac?  Is this okay if I need one?

I also have Carafate suspension and keep a supply at all times because I have a very reactive stomach and it gets irritated easily.  Carafate has no antacid properties, but instead, coats the esophagus and stomach to make them less likely to be damaged by acid. 

There would be no reason to stop it, except when it gets close to the procedure date.  Carafate suspension coats and lasts for about 6 hours, so you'll want to stop taking it in time to keep the coating from interfering with visual imaging of your esophageal and stomach tissue. 

I'd suggest that you call your doctor's office and get their advice as to how to handle your discomfort as you prepare for you testing.  You don't want to do anything that would interfere with the testing.  The GI doc will give you the exact information you need.  As I said, he'll probably give you permission to use it for a while. 

I'm surprised they didn't give you a sheet with directions as to when you can take antacids prior to your procedure.  I know you can take Zantac longer than PPIs, and Maalox even longer than that.  Still, to get the exact timing, please call your GI office.

Good luck with your testing!

Best wishes,

Denise