Patient's Guide to Acarbose (Glucobay, Precose, Prandase) Risks and Side-effects

Acarbose also known as Glucobay, Precose and Prandase is used by western physicians to help control Type 2 (or Non-insulin dependent Diabetes mellitus NIDDM) diabetes-related high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia), preferably together with a proper diet and exercise regime.

It keeps blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible after eating, by slowing down how quickly starch breaks down in the gut.

This medication is sometimes used along with other medications like metformin  to help diabetics control their blood sugar better. Learning about the possible contraindications, side effects, and drug interactions is necessary for your safety.

Acarbose Risks and Side Effects

Common gastrointestinal side effects, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain are common during the few weeks of taking this medication. As you adjust and follow your prescribed diet, these side effects typically subside.

Serious side effects will require you to get medical attention. These are rare and include unusual tiredness, severe abdominal pain, dark urine, persistent vomiting or nausea, and jaundice.

This medication does not cause hypoglycemia, but this condition can occur when taking this drug. Symptoms include cold sweat, dizziness, shaking, headache, feet or hand tingling, blurry vision, drowsiness, fast heartbeat, fainting, and hunger.

If your blood sugar rises, known as hyperglycemia, you may experience thirst, confusion, flushing, fruity breath odor, increased urination, drowsiness, and rapid breathing.

Acarbose Contraindications

This medication may be contraindicated for you. If you have certain allergies, are breastfeeding, or pregnant, avoid this drug unless specifically told to take it.

Avoid this drug if you have kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, bowel problems, intestinal problems, intestinal blockage, severe liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cirrhosis, intestinal ulcers, or an absorption or digestion disorder.


Acarbose Drug Interactions

Certain drugs will interact with Acarbose. These include activated charcoal, amylase, digestive enzyme products, pancreatin, digoxin, pramlintide, gymnema, fenugreek, ginseng, certain other herbal drugs, blood sugar-lowering medications, quinolone antibiotics, high-dose salicylates, levofloxacin, gatifloxacin, isocarboxazid, MAO inhibitors, blood sugar-increasing medications, diet pills, diuretics, HIV protease inhibitors, certain anti-psychotic drugs, corticosteroids, niacin, prednisone, hydrochlorothiazide, ritonavir, olanzapine, and clozapine.

Other medications that may have to be acoided include beta-blockers medications, propranolol, timolol, metoprolol, and glaucoma eye drops.

If you are already taking low-dose aspirin, continue to take it as your doctor instructs. If you are not currently taking low-dose aspirin, consult your physician about taking 81 milligrams to 325 milligrams a day.

It is important to have all necessary laboratory testing done as your doctor orders it to ensure this medication is working well and not causing serious problems. Your family physician will also regularly conduct blood tests to ensure that your long term blood sugar level is under control.