Acarbose

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Acarbose

Acarbose (pronounced as /ˈækərboʊs/) is an anti-diabetic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and, in some countries, prediabetes. It is a generic medication marketed under various brand names, including Precose, Glucobay, and Prandase.

Etymology

The term "Acarbose" is derived from the words "Acarviosin" and "Glucose", which are the two molecules that make up the structure of this drug. Acarviosin is a natural cyclic oligosaccharide and glucose is a simple sugar.

Usage

Acarbose works by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates in the gut. This slows the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. It is often used in combination with other anti-diabetic medications or insulin.

Related Terms

Side Effects

Common side effects of acarbose include gastrointestinal problems such as flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Less common but more serious side effects can include jaundice, hepatitis, and thrombocytopenia.

See Also

External links

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