Acarbose

Acarbose is a drug to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In order for treatment to be more effective, the use of acarbose must be balanced with the implementation of a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Acarbose works by slowing the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates or sugars in the intestines. This way, it can reduce the increase in blood sugar levels after eating.

In the treatment of type 2 diabetes , acarbose can be combined with other antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin or insulin.

Acarbose trademarks:  Acarbose, Acrios, Capribose, Carbotrap, Ditrium, Eclid , Glucobay, Glubose

Warnings Before Taking Acarbose

Here are things you should pay attention to before taking acarbose:

• Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. Acarbose should not be taken by people who are allergic to this medication.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages while undergoing treatment with acarbose, because it can increase the risk of low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
• Do not take acarbose if you have or have ever had cirrhosis of the liver , duodenal ulcer, colitis , or intestinal obstruction.
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, liver disease, hernia, stomach ulcers , or bowel disorders.
• Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness immediately after taking acarbose, because this drug can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including supplements and herbal products, to avoid unwanted drug interactions.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug , overdose, or serious side effects after taking acarbose.

Dosage and Rules for Using Acarbose

The initial dose of acarbose for adults is 25–50 mg 3 times daily. If needed, the dose can be increased to 100–200 mg 3 times daily after 4–8 weeks.

How to Consume Acarbose Correctly

Follow your doctor’s instructions and read the instructions on the medicine packaging before taking acarbose. Do not increase or decrease the dose without your doctor’s permission.

Consume acarbose before starting to eat. Swallow the acarbose tablet with water. Acarbose can also be swallowed with the first bite of food. If you have difficulty swallowing the medicine whole, acarbose tablets can be chewed or crushed.

Try to take acarbose at the same time each day. Make sure there is enough time between doses. Continue taking this medication even if you feel better. Do not stop taking acarbose without your doctor’s approval.

If you forget to take acarbose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and do not double your dose.

While taking acarbose, inform your doctor if you have or have recently had an injury, infection , fever, or surgery. Closer monitoring of your blood sugar may be necessary to reduce the risk of complications.

It should be noted that acarbose cannot cure type 2 diabetes. In order for treatment to be more effective, the use of Acarbose needs to be accompanied by a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a low-fat and balanced diet, and do regular exercise to get maximum treatment effects.

Store acarbose in a closed container at room temperature, dry, and away from direct sunlight, and keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Acarbose Interactions with Other Drugs

The use of acarbose together with other drugs can cause a number of the following interaction effects:

• Increased effect of other antidiabetic drugs, such as insulin
• The effect of acarbose is reduced if used with digestive tract drugs, such as activated charcoal or digestive drugs , such as amylase and pancreatin .
• Increased risk of hypoglycemia when used with neomycin or colestyramine
• Decreased absorption and effectiveness of digoxin
• Decreased effect of acarbose if combined with diuretics , corticosteroids, birth control pills , thyroid hormones, calcium antagonists , or phenytoin

Side Effects and Dangers of Acarbose

The following are side effects that can occur after consuming acarbose:

• Bloated
• Frequent flatulence
• Stomach ache
• Diarrhea
• Itching or skin rash

See a doctor if the above symptoms do not subside or even worsen. Seek medical help immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug or serious side effects below:

• Severe constipation
• Bloody diarrhea
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Liver dysfunction

SOURCE:
Khalili, N. & Safavipour, A. (2020). Evaluation of the Effects of Acarbose on Weight and Metabolic, Inflammatory, and Cardiovascular Markers in Patients with Obesity and Overweight. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 11, pp. 140.
Mo, et al. (2019). Effects of Acarbose And Metformin on The Inflammatory State in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A One-Year Randomized Clinical Study. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 13, pp. 2769–2776.
Indonesian Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (2023). Check Products. Acarbose.
Mayo Clinic (2023). Drugs & Supplements. Acarbose (Oral Route).
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