ACARBOSE AND MIGLITOL (ALPHA-GLUCOSIDASE INHIBITORS)
Working
These medications partially block the enzymes in the small-bowel wall that break down
starches, so that the glucose rise after eating starchy foods is delayed and the glucose peak is
lower.
Side Effects
When one take these medicines, more starch breakdown products find their way to the lower part
of the bowel and the action of the intestinal bacteria on these starches leads to production of gas (flatulence)
and abdominal discomfort. The effects of these medicines on overall glucose levels are modest, and with the
availability of other, more effective medicine for diabetes, their use is somewhat limited. Miglitol should not
be used in people with kidney failue.
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