Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors (Oral Hypoglycemics)

Question 1

Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Answer 1

acarbose (Precose)

miglitol (Glyset)

Question 2

Therapeutic Uses
acarbose (Precose)
miglitol (Glyset)

Answer 2

Type 2 diabetes

Question 3

Mechanism of Action
acarbose (Precose)
miglitol (Glyset)

Answer 3

Inhibit the enzyme alpha-glucosidase in the small intestine. This enzyme normally turns dietary
starch & sucrose into an absorbable form. Cause delayed glucose absorption. Decreased
post-prandial blood glucose levels

Question 4

Adverse Effects
acarbose (Precose)
miglitol (Glyset)

Answer 4

Oral absorption is minimal, so adverse effects are mostly GI related; fermentation (50%) leads to flatulence, cramps, abdominal distention, borborygmus (rumbling bowel sounds), & diarrhea. Liver dysfunction may be a concern with long-term, high dose therapy

Question 5

Administration
acarbose (Precose)
miglitol (Glyset)

Answer 5

Taken orally with the first bite of a meal