Acarbose is a drug, an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that inhibits the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine and, as a result, reduces the increase in the concentration of glucose in the blood after eating carbohydrate-containing food, and reduces body weight by reducing the intake of calories. It is better known under the trade name “Glucobay”, owned by the manufacturer Bayer AG (Germany).
Mechanism of action
By inhibiting intestinal alpha-glucosidases, it reduces the enzymatic conversion of di -, oligo – and polysaccharides to monosaccharides, thereby reducing the absorption of glucose from the intestine and postprandial hyperglycemia, as well as reduces body weight. In patients with impaired glucose tolerance, with regular use, it reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and myocardial infarction.
When using acarbose, the development of hypoglycemia is uncharacteristic. No signs of mutagenicity were found in in vitro and in vivo studies. The introduction of food to rats does not affect fertility and the overall ability to reproduce.
Dosage regimen
Inside, without chewing, with a small amount of liquid immediately before eating or 1 hour after eating. The initial dose is 50 mg 3 times a day with a gradual increase in the single dose to 100-200 mg (the dose increase is carried out after 4-8 weeks of treatment with an interval of 1-2 weeks, depending on the blood glucose content and individual tolerability). The average dose in adults with a body weight of less than 60 kg is 50 mg, more than 60 kg-100 mg 3 times a day. The maximum daily dose is 600 mg/day.
Prevention: the initial dose is 50 mg 1 time a day with a gradual increase in the single dose to 100 mg (the dose increase is carried out within 3 months).
