Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors Flashcards
What is the most commonly used alpha glucosidase inhibitor?
Acarbose.
Describe the mechanism of action of the alpha glucosidase inhibitors.
Inhibits intestinal alpha glucosidase, delaying the digestion and absorption of starch and sucrose. They have a small but significant effect in lowering blood glucose.
What are the side effects of the alpha glucosidase inhibitors?
Flatulence, diarrhea, soft stools, abdominal distension, pain.
Which of the side effects of the alpha glucosidase inhibitors may lead to non-adherence?
Flatulence. This usually goes with time, the patient should be advised to continue with treatment.
What may need to be done if a patient on alpha glucosidase inhibitors experiences diarrhea?
Dose reduction of withdrawal of medication.
What counselling should be given to patients taking alpha glucosidase inhibitors who are experiencing flatulence?
The flatulence will decrease over time.
Which OTC remedy is unlikely to be beneficial when treating the side effects of alpha glucosidase inhibitors?
Antacids.
How should alpha glucosidase inhibitors be taken?
Chewed with the first mouthful of food or swallowed whole with a little liquid immediately after food.
To treat possible hypos, what should patient on insulin or a sulphonylurea as well as an alpha glucosidase inhibitor be advised to keep on them?
Glucose not sucrose.
