Precose

Precose is the brand name for acarbose, an oral antidiabetic medication classified as an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. It is used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes and is typically prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise. Acarbose can be used alone or together with other antidiabetic agents.

Acarbose works by inhibiting enzymes (alpha-glucosidases) on the brush border of the small intestine that break down complex carbohydrates. This delays carbohydrate digestion and absorption, leading to smaller rises in blood glucose after meals. Systemic absorption of acarbose is limited, and most of the drug acts locally in the gut.

Commonly reported adverse effects are related to the gastrointestinal system. The most frequent are flatulence, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea, which are dose-related and often improve with gradual titration and meal-based dosing. Rare but serious liver enzyme elevations have been reported; liver function monitoring is sometimes advised with long-term therapy. Precose is not suitable for people with certain intestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal obstruction.

Drug interactions include an increased risk of hypoglycemia when used with insulin or sulfonylureas. Because acarbose slows carbohydrate digestion, hypoglycemia should be treated with glucose or a fast-acting carbohydrate that does not rely on sucrase for digestion.

Brand and availability: Precose is the brand name commonly used for acarbose. Generic acarbose is available in many markets, and the drug is also marketed under other brand names such as Glucobay in different regions. Safety in pregnancy and lactation should be discussed with a clinician.