Acarbose

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.

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.

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