Acarbose
Drug class: α-glucosidase inhibitors
Acarbose (GLUCOBAY)（中文：阿於波糖）
Pronunciation
Acarbose 50mg
Common Strengths of Acarbose Tablet
Acarbose tablets are available in the following strengths:
- 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg tablets
Drug Trade Names of Acarbose Tablet
GLUCOBAY is the trade name for Acarbose.
Drug Usage
Used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Mechanism of Action
Slows the digestion of carbohydrates by inhibiting enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates, which helps control blood sugar levels.
Route of Administration
Oral
Dosages
- Initially 25 mg three times daily, may increase to 50 - 100 mg three times daily.
- No specific dosage adjustments for hypertension, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease.
Side Effects
| Frequency | Adverse reactions |
|---|---|
| Common | Flatulence |
| Diarrhea | |
| Abdominal pain | |
| Nausea |
Pharmacokinetics
Not provided in the search results.
- Absorption
- Acarbose is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
- Metabolism
- Acarbose is extensively metabolized within the gastrointestinal tract, primarily by intestinal bacteria and to a lesser extent by digestive enzymes
- Excretion
- Approximately half of an orally administered dose is excreted in the feces within 96 hours of administration.
- Half-life
- The plasma elimination half-life of acarbose is approximately 2 hours.
- The onset of action for acarbose
- 1 hour
Drug Precautions
Pregnancy
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Breastfeeding
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Children and Elderly
No specific information for children; limited testing in elderly showed no significant differences.
Monitoring Requirements
- Regular blood sugar and liver function tests
- The medicine is not recommended for patients with gastrointestinal problems
Drug Interaction
May interact with digoxin, diuretics, estrogens, isoniazid, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives, pancreatic enzymes, phenytoin, steroids, and thyroid medications
FAQ
How Should I Take the Tablet?
Take with the first bite of each main meal.
What Should I Avoid While Taking?
Alcohol consumption should be discussed with your doctor.
What Happens if I Miss a Dose?
Take the missed dose with your next meal. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
