Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 100mg
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Initially 25 mg PO q8hr, at meals (with first bite)
Can increase to 50 or 100 mg PO q8hr at 4- to 8-wk intervals based on 1 hour postprandial glucose or glycosylated hemoglobin levels, and on tolerance
Maximum Dose
<60 kg: 50 mg q8hr
>60 kg: 100 mg q8hr
Other Indications & Uses
Type 2 DM, mono treatment or with sulfonylurea
Safety & efficacy not established
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (2)
- ethanol
ethanol, acarbose. Other (see comment). Contraindicated. Comment: Excessive EtOH consumption may alter glycemic control. Some sulfonylureas may produce a disulfiram like rxn.
- pramlintide
pramlintide, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Contraindicated. Synergistic inhibition of GI nutrient absorption.
Monitor Closely (59)
- albiglutide
albiglutide, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia; monitor glucose levels.
- aripiprazole
aripiprazole, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- asenapine
asenapine, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- atazanavir
atazanavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- bitter melon
bitter melon increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypoglycemia.
- cinnamon
cinnamon increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Potential for hypoglycemia.
- ciprofloxacin
ciprofloxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. .
- clozapine
acarbose, clozapine. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- darunavir
darunavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- digoxin
acarbose will decrease the level or effect of digoxin by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Measure serum digoxin concentrations before initiating concomitant drugs; continue monitoring and increase digoxin dose by approximately 20% to 40% as necessary
- dulaglutide
dulaglutide, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- exenatide injectable solution
exenatide injectable solution, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia; monitor glucose levels.
- exenatide injectable suspension
exenatide injectable suspension, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia; monitor glucose levels.
- fleroxacin
fleroxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. Gatifloxacin is most likely to produce dysglycemia; moxifloxacin is least likely.
- fosamprenavir
fosamprenavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- gemifloxacin
gemifloxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. Gatifloxacin is most likely to produce dysglycemia; moxifloxacin is least likely.
- iloperidone
iloperidone, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- indinavir
indinavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- insulin aspart
acarbose, insulin aspart. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart
acarbose, insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin degludec
acarbose, insulin degludec. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin degludec/insulin aspart
acarbose, insulin degludec/insulin aspart. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin detemir
acarbose, insulin detemir. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin glargine
acarbose, insulin glargine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin glulisine
acarbose, insulin glulisine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin inhaled
acarbose, insulin inhaled. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin isophane human/insulin regular human
acarbose, insulin isophane human/insulin regular human. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin lispro
acarbose, insulin lispro. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro
acarbose, insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin NPH
acarbose, insulin NPH. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- insulin regular human
acarbose, insulin regular human. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antidiabetic agents are often used in combination; dosage adjustments may be required when initiating or discontinuing antidiabetic agents.
- ketotifen, ophthalmic
ketotifen, ophthalmic, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Combination may result in thrombocytopenia (rare). Monitor CBC.
- letermovir
letermovir will increase the level or effect of acarbose by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor glucose concentrations
- levofloxacin
levofloxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. Gatifloxacin is most likely to produce dysglycemia; moxifloxacin is least likely.
- liraglutide
liraglutide, acarbose. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia; monitor glucose levels.
- lonapegsomatropin
lonapegsomatropin decreases effects of acarbose by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Closely monitor blood glucose when treated with antidiabetic agents. Lonapegsomatropin may decrease insulin sensitivity, particularly at higher doses. Patients with diabetes mellitus may require adjustment of their doses of insulin and/or other antihyperglycemic agents.
- lopinavir
lopinavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- lurasidone
lurasidone, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- marijuana
marijuana decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- mecasermin
mecasermin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Additive hypoglycemic effects.
- mipomersen
mipomersen, acarbose. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Both drugs have potential to increase hepatic enzymes; monitor LFTs.
- moxifloxacin
moxifloxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. Gatifloxacin is most likely to produce dysglycemia; moxifloxacin is least likely.
- nelfinavir
nelfinavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- ofloxacin
ofloxacin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Quinolone antibiotic administration may result in hyper- or hypoglycemia. Gatifloxacin is most likely to produce dysglycemia; moxifloxacin is least likely.
- olanzapine
olanzapine, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- opuntia ficus indica
opuntia ficus indica increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- paliperidone
paliperidone, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- pancrelipase
pancrelipase decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Antihyperglycemic action of acarbose results from a competitive, reversible inhibition of pancreatic alpha-amylase and membrane-bound intestinal alpha-glucoside hydrolase enzymes.
- quetiapine
quetiapine, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- risperidone
risperidone, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
- ritonavir
ritonavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- saquinavir
saquinavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- shark cartilage
shark cartilage increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Theoretical interaction.
- somapacitan
somapacitan decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Growth hormone products may decrease insulin sensitivity, particularly at higher doses. Antidiabetic agents may require dose adjustment after initiating somapacitan. .
- sulfamethoxypyridazine
sulfamethoxypyridazine increases effects of acarbose by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypoglycemia.
- tipranavir
tipranavir decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. New onset or exacerbation of diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia have been reported with protease inhibitors.
- triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension
triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Corticosteroids may diminish hypoglycemic effect of antidiabetic agents. Monitor blood glucose levels carefully.
- xipamide
xipamide decreases levels of acarbose by increasing renal clearance. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ziprasidone
ziprasidone, acarbose. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Atypical antipsychotics have been associated with hyperglycemia that may alter blood glucose control; monitor glucose levels closely.
Minor (69)
- activated charcoal
activated charcoal decreases levels of acarbose by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- agrimony
agrimony increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- American ginseng
American ginseng increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- amitriptyline
amitriptyline increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- amoxapine
amoxapine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- anamu
anamu increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Theoretical interaction.
- bendroflumethiazide
bendroflumethiazide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- budesonide
budesonide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- chlorothiazide
chlorothiazide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- chlorthalidone
chlorthalidone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- chromium
chromium increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- clomipramine
clomipramine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- clonidine
clonidine decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Diminished symptoms of hypoglycemia.
clonidine, acarbose. Other (see comment). Minor/Significance Unknown. Comment: Decreased symptoms of hypoglycemia. Mechanism: decreased hypoglycemia induced catecholamine production. - cornsilk
cornsilk increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased risk of hypoglycemia (theoretical interaction).
- cortisone
cortisone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cyclopenthiazide
cyclopenthiazide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- damiana
damiana decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Theoretical interaction.
- danazol
danazol increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- deflazacort
deflazacort decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- desipramine
desipramine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- devil's claw
devil's claw increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- dexamethasone
dexamethasone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- doxepin
doxepin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- elderberry
elderberry increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased risk of hypoglycemia (in vitro research).
- eucalyptus
eucalyptus increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Theoretical interaction.
- fludrocortisone
fludrocortisone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fluoxymesterone
fluoxymesterone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- fo-ti
fo-ti increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- forskolin
forskolin increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Colenol, a compound found in Coleus root, may stimulate insulin release.
- gotu kola
gotu kola increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. (Theoretical interaction).
- guanfacine
guanfacine decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Diminished symptoms of hypoglycemia.
guanfacine, acarbose. Other (see comment). Minor/Significance Unknown. Comment: Decreased symptoms of hypoglycemia. Mechanism: decreased hypoglycemia induced catecholamine production. - gymnema
gymnema increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- horse chestnut seed
horse chestnut seed increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- hydrochlorothiazide
hydrochlorothiazide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- hydrocortisone
hydrocortisone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- imipramine
imipramine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- indapamide
indapamide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- isoniazid
isoniazid decreases effects of acarbose by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- juniper
juniper increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased risk of hypoglycemia (theoretical interaction).
- lofepramine
lofepramine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- lycopus
lycopus increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased risk of hypoglycemia (theoretical interaction).
- maitake
maitake increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased risk of hypoglycemia (animal research).
- maprotiline
maprotiline increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- mesterolone
mesterolone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- methyclothiazide
methyclothiazide decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- methylprednisolone
methylprednisolone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- methyltestosterone
methyltestosterone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- metolazone
metolazone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Thiazide dosage >50 mg/day may increase blood glucose.
- nettle
nettle increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. (Theoretical interaction).
- nortriptyline
nortriptyline increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- ofloxacin
ofloxacin, acarbose. Mechanism: unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Potential dysglycemia.
- oxandrolone
oxandrolone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- oxymetholone
oxymetholone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- pegvisomant
pegvisomant increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- potassium acid phosphate
potassium acid phosphate increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- potassium chloride
potassium chloride increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- potassium citrate
potassium citrate increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Interaction especially seen in the treatment of hypokalemia.
- prednisolone
prednisolone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- prednisone
prednisone decreases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- protriptyline
protriptyline increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- sage
sage increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- stevia
stevia increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- testosterone
testosterone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- testosterone buccal system
testosterone buccal system increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- testosterone topical
testosterone topical increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- tongkat ali
tongkat ali increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Risk of hypoglycemia.
- trazodone
trazodone increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- trimipramine
trimipramine increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- vanadium
vanadium increases effects of acarbose by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
>10%
abdominal pain (19%)
diarrhea (31%)
elevated serum transaminases
flatulence (74%)
Postmarketing Reports
Gastrointestinal: Fulminant hepatitis with fatal outcome, ileus/subileus, jaundice and/or hepatitis and associated liver damage
Hypersensitive skin reactions: rash, erythema, exanthema and urticaria
Edema
Thrombocytopenia
Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis
Warnings
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity to acarbose
Diabetic ketoacidosis, cirrhosis, inflammatory bowel disease, colonic ulceration, partial intestinal obstruction or predisposed to intestinal obstruction, known marked absorptive impairment of GI
Conditions that may deteriorate as result of increased gas formation in GI tract
Cautions
No clinical studies exist establishing conclusive evidence of macrovascular risk reduction with acarbose or any other anti-diabetic drug
When diabetic patients are exposed to stress such as fever, trauma, infection, or surgery, a temporary loss of control of blood glucose may occur; at such times, temporary insulin therapy may be necessary
Monitoring glycemic control with 1,5-AG assay is not recommended; measurements of 1,5-AG are unreliable in assessing glycemic control in patients taking acarbose; use alternate methods to monitor for glycemic control
Hypoglycemia
- As per its mechanism of action, drug should not cause hypoglycemia, when administered alone, in the fasted or postprandial state
- Sulfonylurea agents or insulin may cause hypoglycemia; because when given in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin combination treatment will cause further lowering of blood glucose, it may increase the potential for hypoglycemia
- Hypoglycemia does not occur in patients receiving metformin alone under usual circumstances of use; increased incidence of hypoglycemia not observed when acarbose added to metformin therapy
- Oral glucose (dextrose), whose absorption is not inhibited by acarbose, should be used instead of sucrose (cane sugar) in treatment of mild to moderate hypoglycemia
- Sucrose, whose hydrolysis to glucose and fructose is inhibited by acarbose, is unsuitable for rapid correction of hypoglycemia; severe hypoglycemia may require use of either intravenous glucose infusion or glucagon injection
Elevated serum transaminase
- Treatment-emergent elevations of serum transaminases (AST and/or ALT) above the upper limit of normal (ULN) reported; although differences between treatments were statistically significant, elevations were asymptomatic, reversible, more common in females, and, in general, were not associated with other evidence of liver dysfunction;
- Sixty-two cases of serum transaminase elevations > 500 IU/L (29 of which were associated with jaundice) reported; hepatic abnormalities improved or resolved upon discontinuation of therapy in majority of cases; cases of fulminant hepatitis with fatal outcome reported; relationship to acarbose unclear
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category: B
Lactation: not known if crosses into breast milk, avoid using in nursing women
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Half-Life: 2 hr
Onset: 1 hr
Peak Plasma Time: 1 hr
Bioavailability: <2 %
Metabolism: extensively degraded in the intestine by bacterial and digestive enzymes, glucose units are removed from acarbose molecule
Metabolites: 4-methylpyrogallol derivatives (major inactive mets) and other inactive mets
Excretion
Urine: 34 % as inactive metabolites
Feces: 51% as unabsorbed drug
Mechanism of Action
Oral pancreatic alpha-amylase and intestinal brush border alph-glucosidases. This results in delayed hydrolysis of ingested complex carbohydrates and disaccharides and absorption of glucose. Inhibits metabolism of sucrose to glucose and fructose.
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precose oral - | 100 mg tablet |  | |
| Precose oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| Precose oral - | 50 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 100 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 50 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 100 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 50 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 25 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 50 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 100 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 50 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 100 mg tablet |  | |
| acarbose oral - | 25 mg tablet |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
acarbose oral
ACARBOSE - ORAL
(AY-kar-bose)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Precose
USES: Acarbose is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Acarbose works in your intestines to slow the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates from foods that you eat. This effect helps lessen your blood sugar rise after a meal.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times daily with the first bite of a meal. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood sugar is too high or too low).
SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, gas, or abdominal discomfort/pain may occur as your body adjusts to this medication during the first few weeks. These side effects usually lessen with time. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).Acarbose does not usually cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Low blood sugar may occur if this drug is prescribed with other diabetes medications, or if you do not consume enough calories from food, or if you do unusually heavy exercise. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether the dose of your other diabetes medication(s) needs to be lowered.Symptoms of low blood sugar include sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. Do not use table sugar or drink non-diet soda to relieve these symptoms because acarbose slows the breakdown of table sugar. Carry glucose tablets or gel with you to treat low blood sugar. If you don't have these reliable forms of glucose, eat some honey or drink a glass of orange juice to quickly raise your blood sugar. Tell your doctor right away about the reaction and the use of this product. To help prevent low blood sugar, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out what you should do if you miss a meal.Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, and fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor right away. Your dosage may need to be increased or you may need other drugs.This medication may rarely cause a serious intestinal condition (pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis). Tell your doctor right away if you develop: diarrhea that doesn't stop, constipation, blood/mucus in stool.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking acarbose, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: intestine/bowel problems (such as inflammatory bowel disease, blockage, ulcers), kidney problems, liver disease.You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase your risk of developing low blood sugar.It may be harder to control your blood sugar when your body is stressed (such as due to fever, infection, injury, or surgery). Consult your doctor because this may require a change in your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.Pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing your blood sugar while pregnant. Your doctor may change your diabetes treatment during your pregnancy (such as diet and medications including insulin).It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: charcoal products taken by mouth, digestive enzyme products (such as amylase, pancreatin), pramlintide.Beta blocker medications (such as metoprolol, propranolol, glaucoma eye drops such as timolol) may prevent the fast/pounding heartbeat you would usually feel when your blood sugar falls too low (hypoglycemia). Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness, hunger, or sweating, are not affected by these drugs.Many drugs can affect your blood sugar, making it harder to control. Before you start, stop, or change any medication, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how the medication may affect your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high or low blood sugar. (See also Side Effects section.) Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Attend a diabetes education program to learn more about how to manage your diabetes with medications, diet, exercise, and regular medical exams.Learn the symptoms of high and low blood sugar and how to treat low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed.Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney/liver function, hemoglobin A1c) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Information last revised August 2021. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
