Generic Carafate works by acting on the site of the ulcer. Very little of it is absorbed by the body, thus making it relatively safer to use. An ulcer exudes certain proteins. Carafate creates a protective paste like covering over the lining. The medicine works only on the lining of the stomach. Once it coats the ulcer then it protects the stomach from any further harm caused by stomach acids.

An enzyme called pepsin breaks apart the proteins and the medicine inhibits its action. The bile dusts secrete bile, which can prove harmful to the injured stomach lining. The medicine protects the site from the corrosive action of bile juices.

The ingredient sucralfate is composed of disaccharide sugar, sucrose, sulfate and aluminum. It increases the production of prostaglandins which are known to protect the lining of the stomach. Thus the drug works in multiple ways to heal and prevent ulcers.