Acarbose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor antidiabetic drug that lowers blood sugar by delaying carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption.
Structure of Acarbose
- It is a pseudotetrasaccharide composed of glucose units linked by alpha-1,4 and alpha-1,6 glycosidic bonds, modified with a valienamine moiety.
- Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₃₄N₂O₁₄
Mode of Action
- Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition: Blocks enzymes responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into glucose.
- Delayed Carbohydrate Absorption: Slows the rise in blood glucose levels postprandially.
- Reduced Hyperglycemia: Helps in maintaining overall glycemic control.
Advertisements
Uses
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Manages postprandial blood glucose levels.
- Metabolic Syndrome: Assists in improving insulin sensitivity and glycemic control.
Side Effects of Acarbose
- Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Flatulence, diarrhea, and abdominal pain due to undigested carbohydrates reaching the colon.
Thank you for reading from Firsthope's notes, don't forget to check YouTube videos!
