acarbose

MOA

• Inhibits alpha-glucosidase in the small intestine, delaying intestinal absorption of carbohydrates and reducing post-prandial hyperglycaemia.
• Inhibition of alpha glucosidase blocks the conversion of polysaccharides and disaccharides into monosaccharides.

Indication

T2DM

Side effects

• Gastrointestinal upset including flatulence, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and distension are common.
• GI adverse effects are dose-dependent and are increased by taking sucrose; they can be reduced by starting with a low dose and titrating slowly, and usually improve as treatment continues.

safe and modestly effective, its use is limited by the gastrointestinal adverse events.

Acarbose reduces HbA1c by 0.5 to 1%, reduces postprandial hyperglycaemia and assists with weight loss.