Acarbose (ay`car bose)
Brand name: Prandase, Precose
Why is this prescription medicine prescribed?
Acarbose is used in combination with a diet plan, or diet and other medications, to combat type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes (high blood sugar). Acarbose is effective by slowing the action of particular chemicals that break down food to release glucose (sugar) in the blood; this slows digestion, and keeps levels of blood glucose from increasing very high after meals.
Acarbose is occasionally prescribed for other ailments, so ask your physician or pharmacist for more information if you want to know.
How should I take Acarbose?
Acarbose is taken orally in a tablet form, usually three times per day, but this will depend on your physicians directions. It is of utmost importance to take the tablet of Acarbose with the first bite of each meal, but this will also help you remember to take your medication. Make sure to read and follow the directions on the prescription label explicitly, and contact your pharmacist or physician if you are confused by the directions or do not understand anything about your medication. You must take Acarbose exactly as directed by your physician. Never take more or less of Acarbose, or take it more often then directed by your physician.
If you start to feel better, or feel better, continue to take the Acarbose until you finish your regiment or your physician indicates for you to cease. Never cease taking Acarbose without conferring with your physician first.
Are there any special precautions I should take?
Before ingesting Acarbose,
· Always tell a physician if you are allergic to Acarbose or any other medications.
· It is very important to tell your physician if you are on any prescription or non-prescription medications. Especially medications for diabetes, digoxin, (Lanoxin), diuretics (water pills), estrogens, isoniazid, any medications dealing with high blood pressure or colds, oral contraceptives, pancreatic enzymes, phenytoin (Dilantin), steroids, thyroid medications, and vitamins of any kind.
· If you have been afflicted with ketoacidosis, cirrhosis, or intestinal disease such as inflammatory bowel disease or bowel obstruction.
· If you are pregnant, planning on getting pregnant, or are currently breast feeding an infant immediately inform your physician of this condition. If you should become pregnant while on Acarbose you should call a physician and tell them of the situation.
· If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, in form your physician or dentist that you are currently taking Acarbose.
Are there any special dietary considerations I should be aware of while on Acarbose?
It is common for the physician or dietician to prescribe exercise and dietary recommendations when someone is taking Acarbose, so follow the instructions of either health care professional carefully. Make sure to eat a healthy diet while on Acarbose as this is very, very, important.
Alcohol can cause a decrease in blood sugar if you taking Acarbose, so consult your physician before drinking any alcohol while on Acarbose.
What to do if you forget to take your dose at the right time?
Make sure to take the missed medication as soon as you notice you have missed it, have a snack so you can take it with the first bite, unless it is almost time for the next dosage. If it is time for the next dosage, skip the missed dosage, and take your regular scheduled dose. Never take a double dose of Acarbose to make up for a missed one, this could have serious effects.
Are there any side effects associated with taking Acarbose?
Acarbose is not meant to be used in conjunction with insulin or other medications used to treat diabetes, Acarbose can cause excessive lowering of blood sugar levels if used with any such medications.
If you develop any of the following symptoms, glucose products (Insta-Glucose or B-D Glucose tablets) should be taken and you should call your physician immediately, Acarbose blocks the breakdown of table sugar and other complex sugars, fruit juice or other products containing these sugars will not help to increase blood sugar. It is very important you and anybody in the household understands the difference between Acarbose and other medications used to treat diabetes.
· Shakiness
· Dizziness or light headedness
· Sweating
· Nervousness or irritability
· Sudden changes in behaviour or mood shifts
· Experiencing headaches
· Numbness or tingling around the mouth area
· Weakness
· Pale skin
· Hunger
· Clumsy or jerky movements
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can develop and if left untreated, severe symptoms may occur. Make sure that you, your family, friends, and other people who spend time in your presence know that if you show any of the following symptoms, they should immediately get medical attention for you.
· Confusion
· Seizures
· Loss of consciousness
Remember to call a physician or seek medical attention immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms of hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar):
· Extreme thirst
· Frequent urination
· Weakness
· Blurred vision
· Extreme hunger
Left untreated high blood sugar could lead to a potentially fatal condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, so if you have any of the following symptoms immediately seek medical attention:
· Dry mouth
· Upset stomach and vomiting
· Shortness of breath
· Breath that smells fruity
· Decreased consciousness
How should I store the Acarbose?
Acarbose should be stored in the airtight container provided when you received the medication, tightly closed at all times, and out of the reach and eyesight of children. Store the drug at room temperature and away from any source of excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Always throw the Acarbose away when it is outdated or no longer for consumption, your pharmacist of physician will have suggestions on the proper disposal of medications, if you ask.
If an overdose of Acarbose should occur what should I do?
In the case of any over dose of medication, always call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the ingesting individual has collapsed or has ceased to breath, immediately call local emergency services at 911.
Is there any additional information about taking Acarbose I should be aware of?
Never miss an appointment with your doctor or laboratory if it can be avoided, as time can be of the utmost importance in certain cases. Your physician will certainly order particular tests to check your body’s response to Acarbose.
Well that’s it for his hub on the pharmaceutical drug Acarbose (Prandase, Precose); we hope the information here helps you understand a little more about your medication Acarbose.
