Widely used overseas to treat type 2 diabetes, acarbose is less common in the U.S., due to side effects that may outweigh the benefits. It’s part of a class of medicines known as alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. In Europe and China, it’s available as a generic drug by the name of Glucobay. In the U.S. it’s marketed as Precose (by Bayer Pharmaceuticals), and in Canada it’s sold as Prandase. It works by blocking starch and inhibiting the enzyme that releases glucose from complex carbohydrates. This reduces the rate of digestion, and the blood therefore absorbs less glucose. The result is lower blood sugar levels and eventually lower Hb1ac levels. However, the drug’s action leaves some of the carbohydrates undigested in the intestine, which attracts bacteria and yeast and causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and flatulence. This can add to other uncomfortable symptoms of diabetes. Acarbose can be taken alone, or combined with other anti-diabetes drugs such as glyburide, metformin, or insulin therapy.
What are the Side Effects of Acarbose?
In addition to gastrointestinal issues, cases of hepatitis and an increase in liver enzymes have also been reported from use of this medicine for diabetes, acarbose. For this reason, liver function should be carefully monitored before and while using acarbose. In particular, when used along with other blood glucose-reducing drugs, caution must be used so hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) does not occur from using acarbose. Diabetes patients should know that if low blood sugar does occur, table sugar (sucrose) will not be effective, since acarbose blocks its digestion into glucose. Oral glucose (dextrose) is more helpful during a hypoglycemic attack. There may also be allergic reactions. Symptoms can include hives, itching, tightness in the chest, and facial swelling. Acarbose is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. People who have diabetic ketoacidosis or severe kidney problems are advised against using Acarbose, as are those with colon ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease or long-term stomach problems. Acarbose may also lead to calcium or vitamin B6 deficiencies.
Learn About Acarbose Alternatives
Diabetics must control their blood sugar to decrease the risk of kidney, liver and eye disease, all symptoms of advanced stages of diabetes. Acarbose can help to do this, but there are many alternatives. There are other oral diabetes medications that can be substituted, though they will also have the potential of side effects. Biguanides and Glitazones (metformin, Actos, Avandia) help the body make better use of its own insulin. Meglitinides and Sulfonylureas help the pancrease to increase its production of insulin. Injectable medications such as insulin may prove useful, as may combinations of medicines. But in all cases, lifestyle changes are said to be a key element of any diabetes treatment. This includes weight reduction, a healthy diet, and daily exercise, which should be the foundation for every diabetes treatment plan.
