GLUCOBAY 50 50mg tablets medication leaflet

A10BF01 • acarbose • Alimentary tract and metabolism | Blood glucose lowering drugs, excl. insulins | Alpha glucosidase inhibitors

Acarbose is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the class of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and works by slowing the digestion of carbohydrates in the small intestine. This mechanism helps reduce sudden spikes in blood sugar levels after meals (postprandial hyperglycemia).

Acarbose is taken orally, usually in tablet form, and is administered at the start of a meal. The dosage is adjusted by the doctor based on the patient's response and blood glucose levels. It is often used in combination with other antidiabetic medications or insulin for better blood sugar control.

Common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as flatulence, bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. These symptoms occur due to the fermentation of undigested carbohydrates in the colon and tend to decrease as the body adapts to the treatment. Rarely, more severe reactions such as liver function impairment may occur.

Acarbose does not cause hypoglycemia when used alone, but it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when combined with other antidiabetic medications, such as sulfonylureas or insulin. In such cases, hypoglycemia should be treated with pure glucose (e.g., glucose tablets) rather than regular sugar, as its absorption is delayed by acarbose.

Patients should strictly follow their doctor's recommendations, regularly monitor their blood sugar levels, and maintain a balanced diet to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.