Acarbose

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Generic Name of Acarbose - Learn More

Acarbose

Acarbose Precaution - What You Need to Know

- Gastrointestinal Issues: Acarbose can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease should use it cautiously.
- Hypoglycemia: While acarbose alone does not typically cause hypoglycemia, the risk increases when combined with other antidiabetic medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. Patients should be educated about recognizing and managing low blood sugar.
- Liver Function: Acarbose is metabolized in the liver, so patients with liver impairment should be monitored closely. Regular liver function tests are recommended during treatment.
- Renal Impairment: Acarbose is not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 25 mL/min) due to the risk of accumulation and adverse effects.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of acarbose during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
- Elderly Patients: Older adults may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal side effects. Dose adjustments may be necessary.
- Surgery: Acarbose should be temporarily discontinued before surgical procedures to avoid gastrointestinal complications.

Acarbose Indication - Uses and Benefits

- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Acarbose is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly when diet and exercise alone are insufficient.
- Postprandial Hyperglycemia: It is effective in controlling postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose spikes by delaying carbohydrate digestion and absorption.
- Combination Therapy: Acarbose can be used alongside other antidiabetic medications like metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin to achieve better glycemic control.
- Prediabetes: In some cases, acarbose is prescribed for individuals with impaired glucose tolerance to prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes.

Acarbose Contraindications - Important Warnings

- Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Acarbose is contraindicated in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, as it is not effective in managing this condition.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Patients with conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis should avoid acarbose due to the risk of exacerbating gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Acarbose is contraindicated in patients with partial or complete intestinal obstruction, as it can worsen the condition.
- Severe Renal Impairment: It should not be used in patients with severe kidney dysfunction (creatinine clearance < 25 mL/min).
- Hypersensitivity: Patients with a known allergy to acarbose or any of its components should not use this medication.

Acarbose Side Effects - What to Expect

- Gastrointestinal: The most common side effects include flatulence, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. These symptoms usually diminish with continued use.
- Hypoglycemia: Rare when used alone but can occur when combined with other antidiabetic medications. Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, and confusion.
- Liver Enzyme Elevation: In rare cases, acarbose may cause elevated liver enzymes. Regular monitoring is recommended.
- Skin Reactions: Rash, itching, or erythema may occur in some patients.
- Edema: Mild edema has been reported in some cases.

Acarbose Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

2

Acarbose Mode of Action - How It Works

- Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition: Acarbose works by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine, which are responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into absorbable sugars.
- Delayed Carbohydrate Absorption: By slowing carbohydrate digestion, acarbose reduces postprandial blood glucose spikes.
- Improved Glycemic Control: It helps stabilize blood glucose levels throughout the day, particularly after meals.
- Local Action: Acarbose acts locally in the gastrointestinal tract and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream.

Acarbose Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

- Digestive Enzymes: Avoid concurrent use of digestive enzymes like amylase or pancreatin, as they can reduce the effectiveness of acarbose.
- Charcoal: Activated charcoal can adsorb acarbose in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its efficacy.
- Other Antidiabetic Drugs: Combining acarbose with insulin or sulfonylureas increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Blood glucose levels should be closely monitored.
- Neomycin: This antibiotic can enhance the blood glucose-lowering effect of acarbose, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Digoxin: Acarbose may reduce the absorption of digoxin, potentially decreasing its effectiveness.

Acarbose Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

- Initial Dose: The typical starting dose is 25 mg taken orally three times daily with the first bite of each main meal.
- Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased to 50-100 mg three times daily based on tolerance and glycemic response.
- Maximum Dose: Do not exceed 300 mg per day.
- Administration: Acarbose must be taken with meals to be effective.

Acarbose Child Dose - Dosage for Children

- Safety and Efficacy: The safety and efficacy of acarbose in children have not been established. It is not recommended for pediatric use.
- Off-Label Use: In rare cases, it may be used off-label under strict medical supervision for specific conditions.

Acarbose Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

- Mild to Moderate Impairment: No significant dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment.
- Severe Impairment: Acarbose is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 25 mL/min).