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Acarbose: uses, side effects & brands
Acarbose reduces the rise in blood sugar after meals. It belongs to the Oral diabetes medicine group. These help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes through different mechanisms.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Oral diabetes medicine |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Type 2 diabetes — to control sugar rises after meals
- Used with diet and exercise
- Combined with other diabetes medicines
Common brand names
- India: Glucobay, Asucrose
- Worldwide: Precose, Glucobay
Common side effects
- Wind (gas) and bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Tummy pain
Before taking it — precautions
- Take with the first bite of a meal
- If low sugar happens (with other diabetes medicines), use glucose — table sugar works poorly
- Not for people with inflammatory bowel disease, bowel blockage or severe kidney disease
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe tummy pain, swelling or no bowel movement (possible blockage — urgent)
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Shaking, sweating or confusion (low sugar — take glucose and get help)
Frequently asked questions
Why does acarbose cause wind?
Undigested carbohydrate reaches the large bowel, where bacteria produce gas. Starting low and cutting sugary foods helps.
Can acarbose cause low blood sugar?
Not on its own, but it can when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Use glucose to treat a hypo.
How is acarbose different from voglibose?
Both slow carbohydrate digestion and work in a similar way; your doctor chooses which suits you.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.