(AY-car-bose)

NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Prevention of type 2 diabetes

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

BRAND NAME
Precose

DRUG CLASS
Anti-diabetic (alpha-glucosidase inhibitor)

DESCRIPTION
This drug delays the breakdown of ingested complex carbohydrates and the absorption of glucose (sugar). Also inhibits the conversion of sugar to other forms.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, increases in tests used to monitor for liver function.

CAUTIONS
  • Not for use in severe liver disease (cirrhosis), inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerations of the colon, intestinal obstruction, or diseases where there is marked problems in digestion or absorption.
  • Not for use if kidney function is reduced.
  • Requires periodic blood glucose (sugar) monitoring.
  • Acarbose may increase the risk of developing low blood glucose levels when taken with other diabetic drugs.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Digoxin, digestive enzymes (pancreatic enzymes), charcoal

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Guar gum, psyllium, bitter melon, St. John’s wort, ginseng, eucalyptus, gymnema sylvestre, licorice, thioctic acid, glucosamine

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category B. Excretion in breast milk unknown. Consult with your doctor.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
You should take this medication with the first bite of each main meal. Continue dietary instructions, a regular exercise program, and regular testing of urine and/or blood glucose. Stomach side effects tend to improve in frequency and intensity with continued therapy.

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