α-glucosidase inhibitors

α-glucosidase inhibitors

Acarbose is a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme α-glucosidase in the small intestine. This enzyme is responsible for the conversion of polysaccharides into glucose.

 

Acarbose can thus retard the glucose uptake, thereby avoiding a peak in blood glucose levels after a meal. The initial dose for acarbose is 50 mg three times a day just before food intake.

1

I. Administration of acarbose after dinner is recommended.

II. Gastrointestinal complaints are a common adverse effect of acarbose.

2

If a diabetic patient, who uses acarbose, suffers from acute hypoglycemia, saccharose supply is indicated.