Pharmacotherapeutic group: Blood glucose lowering drugs, excl. insulins. Alpha glucosidase inhibitors.
ATC code: A10BF01
Mechanism of action
In all the species tested, acarbose exerts its activity in the intestinal tract. The action of acarbose is based on the competitive inhibition of the intestinal enzymes (alpha-glucosidases) involved in the degradation of disaccharides, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. This leads to a dose-dependent delay in digestion of these carbohydrates. Glucose derived from these carbohydrates is released and taken up into the blood more slowly. In this way, acarbose reduces the post-prandial rise in blood glucose, thus reducing blood glucose fluctuations.
⚠️ Warnings
No special requirements.
Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.
