Package | Dosage | Price | Price per Dose | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dosage: 25mg | ||||
360 pill | 25mg | £195.76 | £0.54 | |
180 pill | 25mg | £103.46 | £0.57 | |
120 pill | 25mg | £76.66 | £0.64 | |
90 pill | 25mg | £63.26 | £0.70 | |
60 pill | 25mg | £49.12 | £0.82 | |
30 pill | 25mg | £34.23 | £1.14 | |
Dosage: 50mg | ||||
180 pill | 50mg | £160.78 | £0.89 | |
120 pill | 50mg | £113.14 | £0.95 | |
90 pill | 50mg | £90.81 | £1.01 | |
60 pill | 50mg | £68.48 | £1.14 | |
30 pill | 50mg | £43.91 | £1.46 |

Acarbose Description
What is Acarbose?
Acarbose is an oral medication primarily used to help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. These medications work by slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine. As a result, it helps to prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose levels after meals. Many patients find Acarbose useful as part of their overall diabetes management plan, especially when combined with other treatments such as diet, exercise, and other medications.
How Does Acarbose Work?
The main mechanism of Acarbose is inhibiting enzymes responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. When these enzymes are blocked, carbohydrates are partially undigested as they pass through the digestive system. This slow digestion means glucose enters the bloodstream more gradually, reducing post-meal hyperglycemia. It is taken orally, usually with the first few bites of a meal. Because of its action, Acarbose is particularly effective in controlling blood sugar spikes after carbohydrate-rich meals.
Advantages of Acarbose
One of the key benefits of Acarbose is its ability to target postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar levels. Many patients report that using Acarbose helps them maintain more stable glucose levels throughout the day. It can also assist in achieving better overall blood sugar control, which is essential for reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Additionally, Acarbose tends to have a low risk of causing hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar) when used alone, making it a safer choice for some patients. It might also have beneficial effects on some aspects of cardiovascular health, according to certain studies.
Possible Side Effects and Precautions
Like all medications, Acarbose comes with potential side effects. The most common ones are gastrointestinal issues such as flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. These occur because undigested carbohydrates ferment in the colon, producing gas. Many patients find these symptoms manageable over time or by adjusting their diet. Rarely, allergic reactions or liver function issues may occur, so regular monitoring is advised. Patients with known gastrointestinal disorders or liver problems should consult their healthcare provider before starting Acarbose. It’s important to follow dosing instructions carefully to minimize side effects and avoid complications.
Usage Recommendations
Acarbose is usually prescribed to be taken with the first bite of each main meal. The dose may start low and be gradually increased based on effectiveness and tolerability. Patients are often advised to maintain a balanced diet, limiting foods that cause excessive gastrointestinal symptoms. Consistency in medication intake is key to achieving optimal blood sugar control. Regular blood sugar monitoring helps determine how well Acarbose is working and whether any dose adjustments are necessary.
Conclusion
Overall, Acarbose is a valuable medication for many individuals managing type 2 diabetes. It provides an effective approach to controlling post-meal blood sugar spikes, which are crucial for long-term health outcomes. While it does pose some gastrointestinal side effects, these often diminish with continued use. As with any medication, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to determine if Acarbose is suitable for your specific condition and to ensure safe and effective use. Proper adherence to dosing and dietary recommendations can maximize the benefits of this medication in managing diabetes.