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    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.