Glucobay Tablet (Acarbose)
Glucobay (Acarbose) Tablet is used to regulate blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. It helps reduce blood sugar level after meals. It's an oral hypoglycemic drug that belongs to an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, this medicine is usually prescribed in mix with other diabetes medications.
| USA Brand Name | Precose |
| Salt Composition | Acarbose (50 mg) |
| Strength | 25 mg and 50 mg |
| Generic Name | Acarbose |
| Manufacturer | Zydus Pharma, India |
| Storage | Store Below 30° C |
Important Information About Acarbose
Uses:
Acarbose is used to treat type 2 diabetes. It should be used in combination with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control.
Dosage:
The recommended starting dose of acarbose is usually 25 mg three times daily with the first bite of each meal. The dose may be increased gradually as tolerated, up to a maximum of 100 mg three times daily.
Precautions:
Acarbose should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes, intestinal obstruction, or chronic digestive disorders. It should also be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems.
Interactions:
Acarbose can interact with other medications such as digoxin, metformin, and thiazide diuretics. It can also interfere with the absorption of other medications such as iron, calcium, and vitamins.
Monitoring:
Patients taking acarbose should have their liver function and blood glucose levels monitored regularly. They should also be advised to report any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or rash.
What is Acarbose or Glucobay?
Acarbose is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. Acarbose or Glucobay works by slowing down the digestion of carbohydrates in the small intestine. It inhibits the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which is responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. By slowing down the breakdown of carbohydrates, Acarbose reduces the amount of glucose that is absorbed into the bloodstream after meals, leading to lower blood sugar levels.
This medication is typically used in combination with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. It may also be used to prevent complications of diabetes such as kidney damage, nerve damage, and blindness. Acarbose is not recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes, as it may not be effective in controlling blood sugar levels in these patients. It is available under USA brand name Precose.
How Glucobay Works?
Glucobay, also known as Acarbose, works by inhibiting the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which is responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars in the small intestine. By slowing down the digestion of carbohydrates, Glucobay reduces the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This leads to lower blood sugar levels after meals and improved glycemic control over time.
Normally, when carbohydrates are consumed, they are broken down into glucose in the small intestine and then absorbed into the bloodstream. This triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas, which helps to move glucose from the blood into the cells of the body, where it is used for energy. In patients with type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.
By inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, Glucobay slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose, reducing the amount of glucose that is absorbed into the bloodstream. This helps to lower blood sugar levels after meals and improve overall glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Before Taking Acarbose or Glucobay
Before taking acarbose, there are several important steps to ensure the medication is safe and effective for you:
- Consult with Your Doctor:
o Discuss your medical history, including any allergies or other medical conditions.
o Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking to avoid any potential interactions. - Follow the Instructions of Your Doctor:
o Adhere to the dosing instructions and other advice given by your doctor or pharmacist.
o Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed, and do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. - Get Your Blood Glucose Levels Checked:
o Your doctor may want to check your blood glucose levels before starting you on acarbose and regularly thereafter to monitor your response to the medication. - Check Your Liver Function:
o Acarbose may affect liver function, so your doctor may want to perform liver function tests before and during treatment. - Plan a Healthy Diet:
o Follow a healthy diet that is low in simple sugars while taking acarbose.
o Your doctor or a registered dietitian can help you plan a healthy diet that is appropriate for your condition. - Inform About Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
o If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking acarbose.
o The safety of Acarbose during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not known, so your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks before prescribing the medication.
Uses of Glucobay
Treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus Here are some uses of Glucobay:
- Blood Sugar Levels:
Glucobay lowers blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates in the small intestine. This slows glucose absorption and reduces blood sugar levels after meals. - Improving Glycemic Control:
By slowing carbohydrate digestion, Glucobay helps reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes, improving overall glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. - Preventing Complications of Diabetes:
Glucobay helps prevent diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, nerve damage, and blindness by maintaining better control of blood sugar levels. - Weight Management:
Glucobay can aid in weight management by reducing calorie absorption from carbohydrates, potentially leading to weight loss in type 2 diabetes patients. - Healthy Lifestyle Integration:
Glucobay should be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise regimen. It is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and is not recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes.
Side effects of Glucobay Tablet
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort:
This includes symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, and diarrhea. These side effects usually decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. - Flatulence:
Increased gas is a common side effect of Glucobay due to its action on carbohydrate digestion.
Important Note:
- Most side effects are mild and do not require medical attention. However, if they persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor. These side effects are usually mild and go away with time.
FAQ’s
- What to Do If You Miss a Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. - What to Do in Case of Overdose?
Seek immediate medical attention or call the Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you suspect an overdose. Symptoms may include severe hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and possible liver damage.
Interaction with Other Drugs
- Digestive Enzymes:
Taking digestive enzymes like amylase or pancreatin with acarbose can reduce its effectiveness. - Other Diabetes Medications:
Combining acarbose with other diabetes medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). - Beta-Blockers:
Beta-blockers used for high blood pressure and heart conditions can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia. - Oral Contraceptives:
Acarbose can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so additional contraception methods are recommended. - Warfarin:
Acarbose can enhance the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner, increasing the risk of bleeding. - Other Medications:
Acarbose can interact with antibiotics, antacids, and medications for heartburn or reflux. Always inform your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking.
| Manufacturer | : | Zydus Pharma, India |
| Equivalent Brand | : | Precose |
| Generic Search | : | Acarbose |
| Strength | : | 25mg and 50 mg |
